Online social and collaborative commerce system and method thereof

ABSTRACT

This disclosure describes an online social and collaborative commerce system and method thereof that provides an interactive and virtual personal shopping experience through a platform that facilitates direct selling of products or services. The experience may utilizes a network of independent representatives, consultants or stylist to sell the products or services to consumers or guests. In one illustrative embodiment, information is received from a hostess to begin a direct selling event. A stylist may be matched with the event and a set of hostess&#39; guests are invited. Using this information, a specific website for the event is generated. A stylist portal, hostess portal and at least one guest portal to the specific website is launched for the event. Through the stylist portal, a selection of products or services may be displayed on the at least one guest portal for purchase. The hostess portal may be used to facilitate the event.

RELATED DISCLOSURE

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/129,748 filed Dec. 21, 2020 entitled OnlineSocial and Collaborative Commerce Method and System, which claimsbenefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.63/017,523 filed Apr. 29, 2020 entitled Online Social and CollaborativeCommerce Method and System, and claims benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/030,221 filed May 26, 2020 entitledOnline Social and Collaborative Commerce Method and System, all of whichare hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an electronic commerce system and moreparticularly, to a generated website for facilitating a sellingexperience whereby products or services from a service or productrepresentative are offered on a virtual “front-row” guided andcollaborative ecommerce platform.

BACKGROUND

Sales may take place in a non-retail environment, for example, at ahome, work, or other non-store location. Apparel, garments, clothing,jewelry, health products, food, cosmetics, insurance, accessories, andmore may be sold in this manner. Through, for example, direct selling,distributors may avoid intermediaries in a supply chain and sellproducts or services directly to consumers. Direct selling may relyheavily on salespeople getting in front of customers in nontraditionalsettings. For the purposes of this application, direct selling may meanany form of sales activity that is direct from a manufacturer, retailer,wholesaler, etc. (or analogous service provider) to a consumer or fromrepresentative of such manufacturer, retailer, wholesaler, etc. (oranalogous service provider) to a consumer.

The direct selling industry, and particularly direct selling industriesthat rely on in-person gatherings, however, has of recent slowed down.Three factors may be influencing this trend: (1) A host has to opentheir home, invite guests and prepare for an in-home home gathering; (2)Guests have to prepare themselves to attend an in-home gathering; and(3) Stay-at-home orders due to emergency health order such as thoseencountered in the 2019-2021 Pandemic. Furthermore, software has notkept pace with the direct-to-consumer model. For example, software maysimply link to an outside ecommerce site that is not designed or meantfor direct selling.

The present disclosure provides for an online social and collaborativecommerce system and method thereof that addresses the above identifiedconcerns as well as many other concerns not specifically enumeratedherein. One focus of the present disclosure is on reinforcingrelationships and gatherings without the complexities of putting anin-person experience, e.g., a home show, together. Furthermore, and bytaking high value elements of a physical in-person, e.g., a home-showexperience, such as relationship building, to a virtual world, thesystem may overcome the perceived in-person frustrations and may pavethe way to be more attractive for the younger demographic of potentialseller. Other benefits and advantages will become clear from thedisclosure provided herein and those advantages provided are forillustration. The statements in this section merely provide thebackground related to the present disclosure and does not constituteprior art.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DESCRIPTION OFTHE DISLCOSURE. This summary is not intended to identify key features ofthe claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid indetermining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system for directselling through a remote platform is provided. The system may include amemory for storing computer readable code and a processor operativelycoupled to the memory, the processor configured to perform processes.The processes may include receiving information for creating a directselling event, generating a specific website from the information forthe direct selling event and launching a first portal, second portal andat least one other portal to the specific website for the direct sellingevent.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a non-transitorymachine-readable storage medium is provided that includes instructions,which when implemented by one or more machines, cause the one or moremachines to perform operations. The operations may include generating awebsite having a first portal, second portal and at least one otherportal for a virtual direct selling event and receiving from the firstportal a selection of products or services to be displayed on the atleast one other portal for purchase during the virtual direct sellingevent with the second portal facilitating the virtual direct sellingevent.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, anon-transitory computer readable medium is provided which storescomputer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or moreprocessors of a computer, cause the computer to perform a method. Themethod may include receiving timing information for a virtual show,associating user information with the virtual show, generating a websitefrom the information, and launching a first portal, second portal and atleast one other portal for the website. In addition, the method mayinclude receiving from the first portal a selection of products orservices to be displayed on the at least one other portal for purchaseduring the virtual show and monitoring the virtual show through thesecond portal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed to be characteristic of the disclosure areset forth in the appended claims. In the descriptions that follow, likeparts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the samenumerals, respectively. The drawing FIGURES are not necessarily drawn toscale and certain FIGURES may be shown in exaggerated or generalizedform in the interest of clarity and conciseness. The disclosure itself,however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives andadvantages thereof, will be best understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description of illustrative embodiments when read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exemplary component diagram of an online social andcollaborative commerce system interfaced through a web application inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exemplary component diagram of the online social andcollaborative commerce system showing illustrative protocols afterinterfacing with the web application in accordance with one aspect ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device for accessingthe online social and collaborative commerce system in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes for establishingthe online social and collaborative commerce system in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes for connectingto the online social and collaborative commerce system through a desktopor mobile device in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 6A and 6B is an exemplary chart depicting a virtual liveexperience flow in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary screenshot for creating a virtual live experiencein accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary screenshot showing entry of parameters for thevirtual live experience in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary screenshot showing a creation of a hostess invitefor the virtual live experience show in accordance with one aspect ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary screenshot showing a stylist portal for invitingguest to the virtual live experience show in accordance with one aspectof the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is an illustrative flow chart showing processes for generatingpotential guests for the virtual live experience show in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary screenshot for generating an invitation for thevirtual live experience show in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 13 is an exemplary block diagram depicting a neural network fordefining potential wardrobes for the virtual live experience show inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is an exemplary screenshot providing an illustrative invitationto the virtual live experience show in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 15 is an exemplary screenshot depicting additional details for theillustrative invitation to the virtual live experience in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is an exemplary screenshot showing an illustrative loginsequence to the virtual live experience for a guest in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is an exemplary screenshot showing a prompt requesting for moreinformation from the guest in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 18 is an exemplary screenshot requesting a current style from theguest in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is an exemplary screenshot showing a guest's portal for thevirtual live experience in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 20 is an exemplary screenshot requesting a stylist to test theircamera and microphone for the virtual live experience in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is an exemplary screenshot allowing the guest to enter into apre-show phase for the virtual live experience which the stylistcontrols entry thereto in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 22 is an exemplary screenshot for the stylist of the virtual liveexperience to verify that their camera and microphone is working as wellas provide additional functionality in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 23 is an exemplary screenshot for the stylist of the virtual liveexperience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 are exemplary screenshots for controlling a chat bot feature forthe virtual live experience which is accessible by system administratorsin accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25 is an exemplary screenshot showing a stylist's portal for thevirtual live experience in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 26 is an exemplary screenshot showing a search and share focus bythe stylist for the virtual live experience in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is an exemplary screenshot showing the stylist's portal for thevirtual live experience to view a specific guest's specific favorites inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 28 is an exemplary screenshot showing the stylist's portal for thevirtual live experience to view a specific guest's style profile inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is an exemplary screenshot showing the stylist's portal for thevirtual live experience to view a specific guest's contact informationin accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30 is an exemplary screenshot showing the stylist's portal for thevirtual live experience to view a specific guest's order in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 31 depicts exemplary screenshots showing the illustrative loginsequence to the virtual live experience for the guest in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 32 is an exemplary screenshot showing an action button or promptfor the guest to join the virtual live experience in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 33 is an exemplary screenshot requesting from the guest to allowtheir camera and microphone to be shared to join the virtual liveexperience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 34 is an exemplary screenshot showing a continuation of amicrophone and/or camera check for the virtual live experience inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35 is an exemplary screenshot informing the guest how to controltheir camera and microphone as well as describing to them a livereal-time chat feature in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 36 is an exemplary screenshot showing a playing of videos alongwith a product carousel of items within the video in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 37 is an exemplary screenshot showing the guest after the video isplayed in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is an exemplary screenshot showing a search clothing featurewithin a chat area in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 39 is an exemplary screenshot showing a linked website associatedwith the search clothing feature in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 40 is an exemplary screenshot showing an end of the virtual liveexperience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 41 is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes for generatinga guest experience report card in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 42 is an exemplary screenshot showing a landing page for the guestafter the virtual live experience has ended in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 43 is an exemplary screenshot showing the hostess' reminder for thevirtual live experience in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 44 is an exemplary screenshot showing the hostess' ability to addguests for the virtual live experience in accordance with one aspect ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 45 is an exemplary screenshot showing the hostess' ability to sendinvites for the virtual live experience in accordance with one aspect ofthe present disclosure; and

FIGS. 46A and 46B is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes forestablishing the online social and collaborative commerce system fromthe start to the end of the virtual live experience in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawingsis intended as a description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosureand is not intended to represent the only forms in which the presentdisclosure may be constructed and/or utilized. The description setsforth the functions and the sequence of blocks for constructing andoperating the disclosure in connection with the illustrated embodiments.It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functionsand sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are alsointended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of thisdisclosure.

The present disclosure relates to electronic commerce. Moreparticularly, this disclosure describes an online social andcollaborative commerce system and method thereof that provides aninteractive and virtual shopping experience through a platform thatfacilitates direct selling of products or services. The experience mayutilize a network of independent consultants, representatives orstylists to sell the products or services to guests of a hostess. In oneillustrative embodiment, information is received from a hostess to begina direct selling event. A stylist may be matched with the event and aset of hostess' guests are invited. Using this information, a specificwebsite for the event is generated. A stylist portal, hostess portal andat least one guest portal to the specific website is launched for theevent. Through the stylist portal, a selection of products or servicesmay be displayed on the at least one guest portal for purchase. Thehostess portal may be used to facilitate the event.

Numerous other modifications or configurations to the online social andcollaborative commerce system and method thereof will become apparentfrom the description provided below. For example, each of the stylistportal, hostess portal and at least one guest portal may be separated bytheir individual access points such that their own unique views may begiven. Yet, each may share a common chat interface. The unique portalsmay offer various functions and features which are differentiated fromthe other attendees of the direct selling event. Advantageously,relationships and gatherings are reinforced without the complexities ofputting a home show together through the disclosed system and method.Through webcasting and real-time streaming, the system enables or allowsa stylist to provide a primary sales method through a non-retailchannel. This unique experience allows a hostess and their friends orguests to view goods or services from a stylist (or someone who isfamiliar with the goods or services) in an exclusive and distinctivemanner. While the majority of this disclosure is directed towardsclothing or other accessories, this is only one exemplary embodiment ofthe present invention. The present invention can be used for any productor service. Other advantages will become apparent from the descriptionprovided below.

The connected environment, which will be described in further detailsbelow, may provide for the direct selling of products or services toguests. Direct selling has a number of business models. Two mainbusiness model include: single-level marketing, in which the hostessmakes money by buying products from a parent organization and sellingthem directly to the guests, and multi-level marketing, in which thedirect seller may earn money from both direct sales to guests and bysponsoring new direct sellers and potentially earning a commission fromtheir effort. In one preferred embodiment, the hostess may earndiscounts from sales of products at a hosted event but is not a sellerof those products.

In one embodiment of a direct selling event involving the sale ofwomen's clothing products, the stylist primary sales method may bethrough a home show. The hostess and their friends may participate in afashion demonstration or experience and may be able to shop a product orservice line. At the show, customers try on, select and place orderswith the stylist. The stylist or the customer may enter their ordersonline through interconnected but various websites. The stylist may alsosell products outside of a home show (called a retail order) and may beentered either by the stylist or the guests themselves.

The online social and collaborative commerce system and method thereofmay bring the previously confined home shows, or other direct sellingmethods, to a virtual styling experience. This experience may be used tohandle RSVP responses and a dedicated chat room. Catalogues for productsor services may be shown with personalization and recommendations fromthe stylist. Real time show trends may also be shown. For purposes ofthis disclosure, the stylist should not be limited to one who sells oradvertises clothing. Rather, the system may be one that facilitates anytype of good or service where someone may be selling goods or service,that is, the term “stylist” should not be construed as being limiting.

Turning to FIG. 1, an exemplary component diagram of an online socialand collaborative commerce system 102 interfaced through a webapplication in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure isprovided. The system 102 may operate in a connected environment 100where multiple portals may access into the system 102. In a non-limitingexample, these portals may be opened and closed by a stylist terminal106 through the system 102. These portals may transmit or receivedigital data between the online social and collaborative commerce system102 to perform the virtual live experience for the direct selling event.

The connected environment 100 may include a communications network fordata transmissions between the portals and the system 102. Thecommunications network may be a wireline or wireless connection, or acombination thereof. The communications network may include a cellularnetwork, or other suitable network such as a local area network (LAN), awide area network (WAN), a public switched telephone network (PSTN), asatellite network, or a combination of them. A suitable network may beany network capable of transmitting voice, data, and/or video betweencomponents within the network. The communications network may includeone or more delivery mechanisms or protocols. Through multiple networks,the hostess terminal 104, stylist terminal 106, and at least one guestterminal 108 may be located locally, nationwide, or international to oneanother.

The online social and collaborative commerce system 102 may operate on aserver, and more particularly, a web server that may have software orhardware dedicated to running applications to satisfy client requestsreceived from the World Wide Web (WWW). On the hardware side, the webserver may store a website's component files, for example HTMLdocuments, images, CSS stylesheets, and JavaScript files. The web servermay be connected to the Internet and support physical data interchangeswith other devices connected to the Web.

On the software side, a web server of the system 102 may include severalparts that control how web users may access hosted files. A Hyper TextTransfer Protocol (HTTP) server is be a piece of software thatunderstands URLs (web addresses) and HTTP (protocol that is used to viewwebpages). The web server may be accessed through the domain names (likecabionline.com) of websites it stores, and may deliver its content tothe end-user's device, such as the hostess terminal 104, stylistterminal 106, and at least one guest terminal 108.

In one illustrative example, when a browser makes a request for a filewhich is hosted on the web server, the browser uses HTTP. When therequest reaches the correct web server (hardware), the HTTP server(software) may accept the request depending on permissions orauthorizations. The HTTP server may locate the requested document andmay send the document back to the browser, also through HTTP. If thedocument is not located, a 404 response may be returned.

The server running the online social and collaborative commerce system102 may include one or more processors and memory. The main memory maystore, in part, instructions and data for execution by the processor.The main memory may store the executable code when in operation performsa number of processes. The server may further include a mass storagedevice, portable storage medium drive(s), output devices, input devices,and peripheral devices. A singular bus between the components may beused for one or more data transport functions. Alternatively, multiplebus lines may be used.

As shown in the connected environment 100, the online social andcollaborative commerce system 102 may be connected to the hostessterminal 104, stylist terminal 106, and at least one guest terminal 108.These terminals may take the form of a computing device. In anon-limiting example, the computing device may be a personal computer(PC), laptop, terminal connected to a server, dumb terminal, tabletcomputer, personal digital assistant (PDA), Internet Protocol phone,smartphone or any other device capable of displaying information and/oroutputting audio.

The hostess terminal 104 and stylist terminal 106 may communicate to theonline social and collaborative commerce system 102 through a singleportal that interfaces with the web server hosted thereon to generatethe virtual live experience for the direct selling event. Alternatively,the hostess terminal 104 and stylist terminal 106 may each access theirown portal and unique views may be presented to them respectively. In anon-limiting example, the guest terminal 108 may each access a portal tothe web server with each being uniquely customized for the system 102.Three guest terminals 108 are shown for a non-limiting example. Fewer ormore may be used within the system 102, depending on the guests invitedby the hostess.

In operation, the hostess terminal 104, stylist terminal 106, and guestterminals 108 may access the server of the online social andcollaborative commerce system 102 through a web portal. The web-basedinterface may provide access to enterprise applications and otherenterprise assets such as applications (including Web applications), andsystems. The interface may be designed as an on-ramp to a variety ofdifferent assets and may be configured easily by the end user.

In a non-limiting example, the web portal may be a specially designedwebsite that brings information from diverse sources, like emails,online forums and search engines, together in a uniform way for each ofthe hostess terminal 104, stylist terminal 106, and guest terminals 108.Each information source may get its dedicated area on the page fordisplaying information (a portlet). The user may configure whichinformation to display. Variants of portals include mashups and intranet“dashboards” for the hostess terminal 104 and stylist terminal 106, andto an extent the guest terminals 108. The extent to which content isdisplayed in a “uniform way” may depend on the intended user and theintended purpose, as well as the diversity of the content. The role ofthe user in an organization may determine which content may be added tothe portal or deleted from the portal configuration.

Portals of the hostess terminal 104, stylist terminal 106, and guestterminals 108 may provide a way for enterprises and organizations toprovide a consistent “look and feel” with access control and proceduresfor multiple applications and databases, which otherwise would have beendifferent web entities at various URLs. The features available may berestricted by whether access is by an authorized and authenticated user(employee, member) or an anonymous website visitor.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary component diagram of the online social andcollaborative commerce system 102 showing illustrative protocols afterinterfacing with the web application 202 in accordance with one aspectof the present disclosure. The hostess terminal, stylist terminal, andguest terminals may access the web application 202 to enable the virtuallive experience. Typically, the web application 202 may be the browsersituated on the terminal as described above. The web application 202 maycommunicate with the web server 208 through an active Internetconnection. This communication may be programmed using a client-servermodeled structure. A new website or specific webpage may be instantiatedfor each direct selling event. The system 102 may provide the ability toswitch in and out different services, which will become apparent frombelow, such as jitsi, WebRTC, Vimeo, and the like.

The web application 202 may access a remotely provided website 204. Thewebsite 204 may receive information from the web application 202 runningon the hostess terminal, stylist terminal, and guest terminals. In anon-limiting example, the user may type in https://www.cabionline.com/and access the website 204 through their specific web application 202.The user may be required to login or cookies may be used to access thewebsite 204. Other forms of remembering access credentials to thewebsite 204 may include, but not limited to, JSON Web Tokens, HTTPauthentication, IP address, URL (query string), or the like.

Once the web application 202 is given portal access to the website 204,the web server 208 may be accessed. The server 208 may produce thevirtual live experience for the direct selling event. This experiencemay be a web application that is delivered to the customer as part of alarger website 204. The triggering of the virtual live experience maycome from the web server 208. In order for the web server 208 to createthe virtual live experience, a virtual show codebase 206 may be used.

The virtual show codebase 206 may be a collection of source code used tobuild a particular software system, application, or software component,and may be human-written source code files, for example. It generallyincludes configuration and property files, as they are the datanecessary for the build. The virtual show codebase 206 may use thefollowing, as shown in Table 1 in URL properties, which may be adjustedas appropriate:

TABLE 1 ejabberd.service.name=conference.prod-video.video.cabishows.comejabberd.host.name=prod-video.video.cabishows.comejabberd.server.url=http://xmp-pl.alchemy.cabiexperience.com:5280/api/

The web server 208 may host applications through software frameworks.The framework may provide both facilities the ability to create webapplications and a server environment to run them. The framework maycontain a comprehensive service layer model which may include a set ofcomponents accessible to the software developer through a standardapplication protocol interface (API) defined for the platform itself.For web applications 202, these components may usually run in the sameenvironment as the web server 208, and their main job is to support theconstruction of dynamic pages. The web server 208 may generate webpages.

In a non-limiting example, the website 204 may communicate with thevirtual show codebase 206 through a messaging protocol and associatedmessaging infrastructure, such as Extensible Messaging and PresenceProtocol (XMPP) over a HTTP (BOSCH) 5442 protocol. XMPP may provide acommunication protocol for message-oriented middleware based on XML(Extensible Markup Language). It may provide real-time exchange ofstructured yet extensible data between any two or more network entities.

The virtual show codebase 206 may communicate with the web server 208using XMPP over HTTP (BOSCH) 5280. The virtual show may be a webapplication that is delivered to the customer as part of the website204, however, the triggering of the virtual live experience comes fromthe web server 208.

A backend 210 may also be tied to the virtual show codebase 206. Thesecomponents may communicate through XMPP 5280. At least one video server216 may be connected to the backend 210, or may be located elsewheresuch as at a remote location. Corporate assets may be provided throughthe backend 210 or third party servers, such as Vimeo or YouTube. Aswill be shown, videos may be made between delivery mechanisms in thebackground. That is, videos may be provided through the video server 216and/or the focus server 212/video bridge 214. A presentation tier may beprovided in the browser and rendered in the browser. The backend 210 mayread/write to a database, and in particular, may be used for videos andmay listen for messages to start playback on command. In an example,real-time video from the stylist, host, and/or guest may be providedthrough the backend 210, which may also be known as a talking head. Theweb server 208 and the backend 210 may be a one-tier system, where theweb server 208 and backend 210 are the same. If the system 102 is atwo-tier or three-tier system, then the web server 208 may be the serverthat accepts requests from the users via the browser and the backend 210is the server that reads/writes to the database. The web server 208 maybe primarily involved with directly interacting with requests from users(e.g. serving web pages, images, etc.). The web browser may directlyinteract with requests from users. Data packets may be sent to the webserver 208 from the browser. The backend 210 may generally be anapplication server that runs software on the web server 208 and may becalled on behalf of the end user to perform business logic.

The virtual live experience for the direct selling event of the onlinesocial and collaborative commerce system 102 may be built around XMPP.Ejabberd, a type of XMPP server, may be used as a message service 218.This service 218 may support one or more multiple messaging platforms(like ejabberd) and one or more messaging protocols (like XMPP). Anevent hub 220 may be used for a custom messaging platform, for example,Sonrisa. The backend 210 may communicate with a video bridge 214 throughstandard internet protocols such as HTTP. The web application 202 maycommunicate with the video bridge 214 through WebRTC over 443. This mayprovide web camera feeds. While WebRTC may be used, other real-timecommunications via APIs may be used.

A focus server 212 may be in communication with the video bridge 214, aswell as other components within the system 102. The focus server 212 maybe implemented as a Jicofo Server. In one non-limiting example, thefocus server 212 may communicate with the virtual show codebase 206through XMPP 5275.

In operation, and when the virtual live experience begins, a meet andgreet period may be generated that uses multiple video feeds playing inone frame. For example, the show may use a “Brady Bunch” style fordisplaying feeds from the hostess terminal, stylist terminal, and guestterminals at a top portion of a screen. The video bridge 214, usingJitsi for example, may be used. Prefabricated marketing videos may beplayed at the beginning for a predetermined period of time. Thesemarketing videos may include metadata stored in the closed captioningtrack which may trigger a carousel of products or services that theparticipants in the virtual live experience may “like” by clicking on aheart icon.

At the end of the video portion, another discussion may occur. This mayalso use the “Brady Bunch” style for displaying feeds. This discussionmay include links to create orders based on the favorites clicked duringthe videos, add items to those orders, or the like. Open-source videoconferencing for the Web and mobile devices may be used. Other featuresfor this pre-show period may include making a call, launching on theirown servers in minutes, integrate into the application, or develop newfunctions or features.

Conference focus may be a component of Jitsi COnference FOcus (jicofo),which may be implemented through the focus server 212. The focus server212 may be a server side focus component used in Jitsi. Meet conferencesmay mange media sessions between each of the participants and the videobridge 214. The focus server 212 may be responsible for managing mediasessions between each of the participants and the video bridge 214.

When a new conference is about to start, an information query (IQ) maybe sent to the focus server 212 to allocate a new focus instance. Afterthe instance is created, a special focus participant may join amulti-user chat room. This may be created using a Jingle session betweenthe Jitsi video bridge 214 and the participant. Although the session interms of XMPP may be between the focus user and participant, the mediamay flow between the participant and the video bridge 214. The focususer may allocate COnferences with LIghtweight BRIdging (COLIBRI)channels on the bridge and use them as its own Jingle transport.

To start quickly with Jicofo (through the focus server 212), it may berecommended to install Jitsi Meet using quick install instruction whichmay install and configure ‘jicofo’ debian package next to ‘jitsi-meet’.Jitsi Build may be used, for example, for massively scalable multipartyvideo applications. Mixing video channels may be stopped and JitsiVideobridge may be used instead.

A selective forwarding unit (SFU) may be designed to run thousands ofvideo streams from a single server, and may be fully open source andWebRTC compatible. The online social and collaborative commerce system102 may maintain meta-information on software components. In order toimprove performance, the focus server 212 may be run as close toejabberd on the network as possible. Preferably, this has been chosen tobe on the same server. Video playback for customer needs may beperformed via HTTP video streaming.

There may be two version of the signaling protocol used by WebRTC:Plan-B and Unified Plan. Jitsi may support Plan-B and has some limitedsupport for the Unified Plan. The two version of the signaling protocolsmay have differences specifically in how they describe media tracks ifthere are more than one with the same type (e.g., more than one videostreams).

In a non-limiting example, simulcast is a technique by which a WebRTCclient may encode the same video stream multiple times in differentresolution and bitrates. The client may then send these to the videobridge 214 which may then decide who receives which of the streams. Bydisabling this, each participant may stream one and only one videostream, instead of streaming at three different resolutions and leavingto the video bridge 214 to decide which should be forwarded to theothers. If there are no multiple streams of the same kind in a WebRTCcall, then Unified Plan and Plan-B may become quite similar. This may besimilar enough to allow Jitsi to understand Safari.

The latest video bridge 214 and jicofo may also be needed for this. Ifsimulcast is disabled, every participant may stream one and only onevideo stream which may be HD by default and the video bridge 314 may nothave the chance to forward a lower resolution stream to the otherparticipants. This may cause performance issues for the users on theirend. This may result in a decreasing of the resolution and the bitrateof the video stream for compensating the lack of the lower resolutionstreams, for example. As such, simulcast may be disabled for theparticipants, regardless of which browser they are using. The videoresolution may be decreased and video bitrates may be decreased. Inturn, the stylist and hostess may have a bit higher resolution thanguests.

The width value of the video may be calculated based on the aspectratio. In one example, the ratio may be 16/9. The values may be set withthe following parameters: startBitRate, maxBitRateTarget, vidHMin,vidHMax, and vidHldeal

The online social and collaborative commerce system 102 may include avirtual show media server cluster where a cluster of media servers maybe enabled for end-user uploads. In a non-limiting example, twoendpoints may be offered on the virtual show media server. One endpointmay be used to upload content and the other to download content. Toupload content to the virtual show media server a form encoded POST callmay be made. Not all parts of the internal network (for example, AlchemyNetwork) may access the external interface, as shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Location Base Address (Prod) Inside the Alchemyhttps://vsassets- Network klb.alchemy.cabieexperience.com (Prod) Outsidethe Alchemy https://vsassets.cabishows.com Network (Dev) Inside theAlchemy https://vsassets.cliotest.com Network

Some exemplary code for the POST call may be shown in Table 3.

TABLE 3 curl -X POST -H “Content-Type:application/x-www-form-urlencoded”http://vsassets-pl/media-upload/upload.php“filename=a/test.txt&key=xg78fPxZ2BSxRjGLasi&base64data=PD9waHAKCnBocGluZm8oKTsK”

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device 300 foraccessing the online social and collaborative commerce system inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. The hostessterminal, stylist terminal, and guest terminals may be in the form of acomputing device 300, but may take other configurations as well. Thehardware/software description provided below is for purposes ofillustration and should not be construed as limiting.

In typical embodiments, the computing device 300 may have a processor302 for implementing logic, a memory 304, a display 306 and a keypad308. The display 306 of the device 300 may be a liquid crystal display(LCD), or any other type of display commonly used in devices 300. Thedisplay 306 may be touch-sensitive and may act as an input device. Thekeypad 308 may be a push button numeric dialing pad (such as on atypical telephone), a multi-key keyboard (such as a conventionalkeyboard), or any other device for inputting textual data.

The memory 304 generally includes both volatile memory (e.g., RAM) andnon-volatile memory (e.g., ROM, Flash Memory, or the like). Thenon-volatile portion of the memory 304 may be used to store persistentinformation which should not be lost when the device 300 is powereddown. The device 300 may include an operating system (OS) 310, such asWindows CE™ or Windows Mobile™ available from Microsoft Corporation,Android™ from Google, other desktop OS, such as Linux™ or MicrosoftWindows®, or the like. The OS may reside in the memory 304 and beexecuted on the processor 302.

The memory 304 may also include one or more browsers 312 that may run ontop of the OS 310. As previously described, the browser 312 may be aclient software program that runs with a web server or other Internetserver and enables a user to navigate the World Wide Web (WWW) to accessand display data. The browser 312 may be built on the concept ofhyperlinks on which a user may click with a mouse to jump from page topage, document to document, or even site to site. Browsers 312 maydownload files, display graphics, play audio and video files, andexecute programs.

The memory 304 may also include a collection of one or more APIs 314 forfacilitating wireless communication between the device 300 and one ormore remote input/output (I/O) devices. The APIs 314 may be invoked bythe browser 314 to communicate with the online social and collaborativecommerce system. In this manner, the device 300 is able to takeadvantage of services or functionalities of the one or more remote I/Odevices.

The device 300 may also include a power supply 316, which may beimplemented as one or more batteries, fuel cells, or other sources ofelectrical power. The power supply 316 might further include an externalpower source, such as an AC adapter or a powered docking cradle thatsupplements or recharges the batteries. The device 300 may include oneor more audio, visual, and/or vibratory notification mechanisms 318. Thecomputing device 300 may also include a connection module 320, such as aWiFi® module that facilitates wireless connectivity. The connectionmodule 320 may also be a wireline communication. This may be connectedinto the communication network as described above that may facilitatecommunications between the online social and collaborative commercesystem.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes 400 forestablishing the online social and collaborative commerce system inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Each virtual liveexperience that is established may include its own website orindividualized page for that specific direct selling event. The systemmay provide varying capabilities adapted to a wide range of skilllevels.

The virtual live experience may adapt to varying skill levels of thestylist. For example, and for purposes of illustration, an experiencedstylist may be characterized with one who has been with the company overa number of years, knowledgably about the systems, have a good network,proficient at storytelling, and understand their statistics.Advantageously, the goal of the system may be to make sales easier,expand networks of the hostess and guests, attract new customers, andteam build.

For newer stylists, in the alternative, the purpose of the system may beto give them brand experience, make the virtual show platform lookintriguing, host more shows, connect to virtual show platforms,reinforce the value of the relationship aspects (chat, webcams,interactions), provide the ability to share with wisdom, and tap intotheir network and their willingness to talk about it (referrals andsocial media sharing). The newer stylist may only be experienced inretail shopping, and not understand their role fully. The system mayprovide this stylist with tools to help support themselves and forquickly and easily answering questions.

The processes 400 may begin at block 402 where the stylist may accessthe web server through the browser located on their terminal. Thestylist may connect into the website where the web server maycommunicate back and forth with the stylist through a series ofwebpages. At block 404, and in one of the webpages, the stylist may pickor enter in a date and time of the virtual live experience for thedirect selling event. While the stylist is shown to commence the event,the hostess may also initiate it. In this example, the stylist may posttheir time availability in a calendar for the hostess to select.

At block 406, the stylist may pick a hostess. The stylist may chose ahostess, for example, if they worked with one another in the past. Salesamounts in the hostess' previous events may be indicated by their name.Alternatively, the stylist may be randomly paired with a hostess.Prospective hostesses and customers may be paired with stylists based ona stylist criteria and geo location data. The customer may fill out aprofile that allows the stylist to better find clothing matches for thatcustomer. Ratings, reviews or other information may be displayed by thestylist for the hostess/customer to view such that the hostess may maketheir decision.

In one illustrative example, the stylist or hostess may be associatedwith a certain style. These styles may be, but are not limited to,vintage, artsy, casual, grunge, chic, bohemian, or exotic. The onlinesocial and collaborative commerce system may match a hostess who had aparticular style that was congruent with the stylist. Through stylematchings, the stylist and hostess may be a better fit for one another.As such, the hostess may fit their needs of their customers with aparticular stylist.

At block 408, the stylist or hostess may pick a location to host thedirect selling event. This may be live and in person at the host's houseor other non-traditional retail location. Alternatively, the virtuallive experience may be chosen. A webpage may be instantiated in thesystem with created video bridges between the stylist terminal, hostessterminal, and at least one guest terminal.

If the hostess initiates the direct selling event, the online social andcollaborative commerce system may notify the stylist that a time requesthas been made and their services are needed. Typically, the stylists,hostesses and customers are assigned to one another.

The stylist and hostess may engage one another outside the systemregardless of who initiated the direct selling event. The system maycheck for information within a contact manager such that the informationbetween the hostess and stylist are exchanged. They may engage oneanother through the system, but do not necessarily have to. The systemwould provide a pre-show phase where they may communicate with oneanother about the event. A show page URL, as described above, may alsobe implemented to facilitate these functions.

At block 410, the hostess may pick guests to invite to the directselling event. If the hostess and stylist chose a vintage style, guestswho are interested in this style may be chosen. Guest preferences may beentered into the system. In addition, or separate therefrom, guestpreferences may be learned. Preferences may be determined based on whichwebsites a guest visits, what they have purchased, geographic location,or the like. Preferably, preferences are based on profile, purchasehistory and favorites. Preferences may not be solely based on clothingwhich was purchased, but may be based on other non-related factors suchas the types of food they purchase, their profession, or their socialnetworks, for example.

In one embodiment, guests may be active in obtaining an invite to thedirect selling event. This may include making reservations through thewebsite or placing their name within the system. Guest emails or textsreceived at the system may automatically be processed and an invite maybe sent.

At block 412, the system may send invites to those guests who wereselected. The stylist or hostess may send invitations via a URL. Theinvitation may be sent through the web server of the system. Informationabout the event may be automatically populated within the invitation.The invitation may indicate whether it is a virtual show and that it maybe hosted within the system, or outside of the system as in a live showat the hostess house in a non-traditional format.

Text messaging invites may be sent for the direct selling event. Inaddition, social media sites may broadcast the event. The invitation maytake the guest to a show page of the virtual live experience. Beforeentering, the guests may be required to provide authenticationinformation to access the show page such as an email address andpassword. The guests may be provided with marketing campaigns about thegoals of the company that is hosting the event.

The show page or website may be created at block 414. The show websitemay provide a top list of things to do before the show begins. Forexample, the guests may be encouraged to explore previous shows orclothing/accessory options. A countdown clock may be used to inform thestylist, guest and hostess when the event will begin. The stylist andhostess pictures, or avatars, may be shown. Chat rooms may be displayedon a separate panel. Sneak peek video may also be provided. This videomay be created by the hostess or stylist, or may be generated by thecompany hosting the event. A personal appointment or private chat may berequested or given through the system.

On the day of the show, the stylist may begin live streaming on theirown webcam. This input may be from a dedicated device on the computingdevice or may be on a separate higher grade camera or video recorder.During the show, the stylist may use their chat functions.

During the actual show, which may be for an hour in duration, forexample, videos may be streamed and played on the guest terminals. Acarousel of products or services may be displayed in tandem with thevideo. The guest may select their favorites in this particular case andin other parts of the application and in other scenarios, the stylistmay assign favorites. The stylist may be given a body type, or the like,to determine how to provide a perfect style for the guest.

In one example of the virtual live experience for the direct sellingevent, a single guest may be invited. The direct selling event may be atthe personal request of the guest. The system may not match them in thisscenario. In this case, the hostess may have a pre-existing relationshipwith the stylist. If they do not, they are matched geographically. Ahostess may be involved such that introductions may be made.

Purchasing of the products or services may be enabled through the onlinesocial and collaborative commerce system while the virtual show is beingperformed, or afterwards. In a non-limiting example, the guest mayselect the item on the carousel or click on the item in the video topurchase it. A price may be displayed as a pop up or elsewhere after theproduct or service is clicked within the carousel. Shipping informationmay also be displayed along with local and state taxes, for a totalpurchase cost. Pre-stored payment information may be within the systemfacilitating a quick purchase. Alternatively, a checkout process may begiven at the end of the virtual live experience. When a product orservice is purchased, they may be sent immediately similar to a retailorder.

For those who were not originally invited to the virtual liveexperience, guests may be given access into the show if permission isreceived from the hostess and stylist. Other guests may also invite newguests into the show as long as there is capacity. The capacity for thenumber of guests in the show may vary. Some stylist are more experiencedand may handle many more guests than those that are newer to the system.This may be built into the system which allows more experienced stylistto host more guests.

After the show, the chat rooms within the website may remain open. Thestylist and hostess may answer questions or concerns. The guests mayalso replay previous videos that were presented during the show. Thecarousel may be displayed having products or services within the video,or the entire collection may be presented within all of the videos.Guests may save clips of specific videos that they wish to view againduring the actual show to play again after the show. These may be viewedby the stylist, hostess or other guests.

In one embodiment, the guest may “favorite” or “like” products orservices, but do not necessarily have to purchase them during thevirtual live experience. Emails or text information may be sentregarding these products or services that have not been purchased by theguest. Reminders regarding these items may be given periodically for aperiod of time, for example 3 months, after the show has ended. Theguest may be given an update if the items were to go on sale. Updatesmay also be provided if the item may be or has been discontinued orwhether there is a low inventory regarding the product or service.

The stylist or hostess may end the virtual show session. In an example,the show may automatically end when no other guests are within thevirtual show. The stylist or hostess may enable a new session for thesame virtual show for multiple dates. If a participant tries to re-enterthe show after the virtual show has ended, the system may indicate ontheir terminal that the show has ended and contact information about thehostess or stylist may be given.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes 500 forconnecting to the online social and collaborative commerce systemthrough a desktop or mobile device in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure. Depending on the computing device the user may enterthrough different variations of the virtual live experience for thedirect selling event. The processes may begin at block 502 where an RSVPis received by the guests.

At block 504, the system may determine that the user has opened the RSVPon their desktop. In a non-limiting example, a userAgent object methodmay give browser details in a plain text format. A determination may bemade whether the show is virtual or live on the desktop computingdevice. At block 506, the desktop may provide the virtual liveexperience as a virtual design. Otherwise, the desktop may go to a liveshow design at block 508. The user may log in from RS at block 510.

Oppositely, and when a determination is made that the user is accessingthe website through a mobile device at block 512, the website may beopened in a mobile device format. This may again be determined throughthe userAgent object, for example. A determination may be made whetherthe show is virtual or live on the mobile computing device. At block514, the show may go to a mobile virtual design when determined to be ina virtual format. Otherwise, at block 516, the show may go to a mobilelive show design. At block 518, the user may login from TAP.

With reference now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, an exemplary chart 600 depictingthe virtual live experience flow in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure is provided. A number of show states will beprovided, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of thepresent disclosure. The show may begin with a pre pre-show state 602.This state 602 may begin through two sources. The pre pre-show state 602may begin when a participant receives an email invite or a direct RSURL. When the direct RS URL is received, the participant may land on aregular RS page where they may login. A navigation screen may beprovided once the user enters and logs in to the website or webpage. Inone embodiment, the pre pre-show state 602 may allow stylist and hostessto communicate with one another about setting up the direct sellingevent.

Following the pre pre-show state 602 may be the pre-show state 604. Theparticipant may enter in through two sources similar to before. That is,an email invite and a direct RS URL may be given. In one example, theshow states 602 and 604 may be limited to the hostess and stylist. Itmay also be opened up to guests with or without restricted access.During these show states 602 and 604, information may be placed in suchas videos, preferences, avatars, or the like.

Following the pre-show states 602 and 604, the show state 606 may begin.The source may be the email invite or the direct RS URL. The show state606 may actuate the virtual live experience for the direct sellingevent. This may include implementing the video bridge along with thebackend functions of the system.

A post show open state 608 may be activated after the show ends. Thesource may be the email invite or the direct RS URL. Alternatively, theparticipant may be automatically sent into the post show open state 608.The guests may perform a number of tasks during this state 608. Forexample, any items that were tagged as “like” or “favorite” may bepurchased at this time. Other functions or features will become apparentfrom the description provided below.

After the show ends, a post show closed state 610 is enabled. The sourcemay be the email invite or the direct RS URL. Alternatively, control maybe provided automatically after the post show open state 608 ends.During this state 610, guests may be allowed to review their purchases,add additional purchases, or the like. Feedback or reviews may be givenon their experience. Feedback may be used to enhance the virtual liveexperience.

Through the virtual live experience flow 600, key processes may be setupthat include: setting up the show; inviting hostess and guests;conducting the show; introduction to the product or service line;demonstration or fashion show; discussion of philanthropic endeavors;discussion of business opportunities; try on and discussion of theproduct or service options; fashion or styling tips and recommendations;shopping during the show; check out the show; wrapping up and good byes;shopping after the show; and stylist post show follow ups.

Below, a number of screenshots will be provided showing a flow of thevirtual live experience for the direct selling event. The screenshotsmay illustrate typical portals for the stylist, hostess and guest. Whenappropriate, flow charts are provided to clarify or expand on conceptspresented within the screenshots. Portals for the stylist and guestswill be presented first and then a hostess portal will then be provided.

With reference to FIG. 7, an exemplary screenshot 700 for creating avirtual live experience in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure is provided. The stylist may create a show and select thehostess for the virtual live experience. The stylist may create a showby entering the hostess that they wish to work with. Typically, thehostess may be a medium between the guests and the stylist where thehostess provides contacts for the event. The hostess may monitor theguests and provide an introduction to the stylist, with the stylistproviding their unique fashion sense.

The hostess may be selected from the stylist's contacts. In anon-limiting example, a scroll down menu 702 may be pulled down to showa list of hostesses. The hostesses may be imported from social networksor graphs, personal information, or contacts, for example. The hostessmay be selected based on their connections. The hostesses may be chosenfrom previous work or styles that match with the particular stylist.Both the stylist and the hostess may have a particular genre. Stylistsmay select the hostess based on their ability to generate revenue. Otherfactors may be used, and are not limited to those described above forthe stylist to select a hostess.

In the screenshot 700, another method for entering a hostess isprovided. The stylist may enter in a first name 704 and last name 706 ofthe hostess. The information may be automatically populated. In anexample, if the stylist enters in “Ma” for the first name 704, thewebsite may be automatically fill in “Mark” if the user selects autopopulate. The last name 706 may also be automatically filed in. This maybe dependent on the first name 704 such that if there is only one or afew last names associated with a first name 704, then that informationfor the last name 706 may be automatically be populated with or withouta typed in letter.

The stylist may enter a name into a “Referred By” entry 708. The entry708 may allow a referring party to get credit. In an example, thehostess may be referred by another hostess such that the current hostessis more in line with the fashion for this particular hostess and theirguests. A small amount or credit may be given for every purchase made inthe virtual live experience to the referring stylist. The referringparty may be someone other than a stylist, for example, a friend, guest,or other hostess.

A mailing address 710 within the screenshot 700 may be automaticallypopulated when a hostess is selected. If the address of the hostesscannot be located within the system's database, the stylist may enterthe address of the hostess through a manual entry. The mailing address710 may also be requested from the hostess once selected by the stylist.For example, an email would be sent to the hostess and then the hostessmay provide this information.

A validation address button or actuator 712 may be used to determinewhether a correct address has been entered in. This may use a thirdparty source to validate the address. By entering in the information ofthe hostess, samples of the products or services may be sent to theiraddress. A check mark 714 may be displayed once the address has beenverified.

Co-hostess information 716 may be provided in situations where more thanone hostess is used for the direct selling event. Multiple hostess maybe used when it is a large gathering of guests. Similarly, multiplestylist may be part of the same show. Similar features for entering inthe co-hostess information 716 may be used as described above. Breakoutrooms for stylists and specific individuals may also be integrated intothe virtual live experience.

FIG. 8 is an exemplary screenshot 800 showing entry of parameters forthe virtual styling show in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure. This screenshot 800 may be configured in a number ofdifferent formats and is not limited to that shown. A show may becreated by a show type 802 and show date and time 804. The show type 802may indicate a physical show or virtual show. The physical show mayinclude for example a home show. The system may facilitate these typesof events such as having the hostess enter in the location of where thephysical show will take place. Special instructions may be further givenin the physical show, for example, activating a special passcode if theshow were to take place in a gated community. This passcode may beprovided for a temporary period.

Another show type 802 is the virtual or virtual live experience. Thesystem may create a specific webpage or website when selected. The showdate and time 804 may be entered in to create a show. The stylist mayenter in a date at a top portion. When selected, a calendar may bedisplayed such that the stylist may scroll by days, months and years.

A time zone and start time may be entered in within the show date andtime 804. The start time may be required but the end time may be leftblank to start the show. The stylist may select shipping options to thehostess.

The stylist may wish to ship guest orders to the hostess for free or maywant to ship guests their orders directly for a nominal shipping fee.For purposes of illustration, the stylist may select “Yes, I′d like toallow free shipping to the hostess” or “No, I don't want to allow freeshipping to the Hostess”. A shipping address may be required. This maybe the same as a hostess shipping address. If “Other” is selected, thestylist may enter in an address manually.

FIG. 9 is an exemplary screenshot 900 showing a creation of a hostessinvite for the virtual live experience in accordance with one aspect ofthe present disclosure. A “Hostess Invite” email 902 may be provided.The hostess information may be populated automatically within the email902 using the information previously entered in by the stylist. Thehostess invite may also be sent through other communication mediums,such as, text messaging.

The email 902 may be filled with a pre-populated message. This messagemay include, “I am looking forward to your Virtual Fashion Experience. Ijust know your friends are going to love our gorgeous collection! Belowis your login information to access the Online Hostess Planner, whichwill make inviting your friends and keeping track of RSVP's a breeze”.This may be from the stylist to the hostess. A carbon copy option may beprovided.

Template images 904 may be used. The images 904 may be embedded into theemail 902 or linked. The images 904 may be in the form of a videoadvertisement. In a non-limiting example, when an icon for the images904 is selected, the user may be given a number of options that providevarious advertisements to the virtual live experience for the directselling event. Different advertisement genres may be selected to appealto that particular hostess and their guests.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary screenshot 1000 showing a stylist portal forinviting guest to the virtual live experience in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure. For purposes of illustration, thescreenshot 1000 may include a top portion 1002, left portion 1004 and aright portion 1006. Other configurations may be used with fewer or morefunctionalities.

The top portion 1002 may include a pull down menu. Using this menu,guests from different contacts may be retrieved. For example, thestylist may pull up the “My Contact Manager” through the pull down menu.The stylist may begin typing in a box right of the pull down menu. Thebox may be auto-populated based on the names within the “My ContactManager” when the user enters in text. Pressing a “New Contact” buttonmay bring that particular contact down to a guest list below. Otherguests may be associated with options through the pull-down menu. Forexample, “Personal Contacts” may be an option within the pull down menu.This would retrieve potential guests from the hostess' smartphone orwhere they store their contact list.

In the top portion 1002 may also be a drop down menu to search forguests of a previous show. The previous show may have been live orvirtual. In a non-limiting example, the hostess may search by selecting“All Shows” or search by a particular season such as “Spring '20”. Ashow date range may also be selected with a beginning and end date. Oncethe end date is selected, the guest list may automatically be populatedwith guests who were part of the shows within those particular dates.

On a bottom left portion 1004 of the screenshot 1000, the potentialguest list is shown. This collection area of potential guests may beretrieved as described above. Information about the potential guests maybe depicted, for example, their city and state may be given. Anunsubscribed or subscribed column may indicate whether the potentialguest has subscribed or is interested in this particular clothing linefor this season. The potential guest may have selected an option intheir personal profile to indicate their subscription. A “VS Guest”column may indicate that the potential guest is already a guest withinthe virtual live experience for this particular direct selling event.

In one embodiment, guests who are often favorites of a particularhostess may automatically be populated. This information may be storedwithin the online social and collaborative commerce system or on thehostess terminal. A favorite guest of the hostess may be defined as onewho has attended a hostess' direct selling events frequently and spent acertain threshold amount or purchased above a specific quantity. Thehostess, alternatively, may mark guests as their favorites based ontheir own subjective criteria.

Other information on the left panel 1004 for each guest may include howmuch money was spent in their previous order. This may have been withina previously attended live or virtual show. An action column may allowthe stylist to switch the potential guest to a guest who will get aninvite to the virtual live experience. A simple plus sign may be used toadd in the guest. If the guest has already been added in, the sectionwould indicate “Added”.

On the right portion 1006 in the screenshot 100 of the hostess portal,guests who may receive an invite are shown. A minus sign in this portionby the guest may be used to remove them from the guest list. Informationabout the particular guest may be shared with the hostess in accordancewith one embodiment. When selected, the guest list may be sent via acommunication (such as email or text) to the hostess in a desiredformat. Information regarding the guests in the guest list may include,but is not limited to, guest profile information, their address, phonenumbers, or the like.

With reference to FIG. 11, an illustrative flow chart showing processesfor generating potential guests for the virtual live experience inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure is provided. Theguest list may be automatically pre-populated with the hostess' contactsor may be pulled from previous direct selling events. Alternatively, andfor example, the guests may be populated using logic processes. Theseprocesses may begin at block 1100.

At block 1102, information about guests may be retrieved along withcontacts of those guests. Nested discovery may be used to find potentialguests that are separated by “N” degrees. In an example, social graphingmay be used to determine potential guests by discovering those who areseparated by 2 degrees from the hostess.

The system may retrieve information about a stylist including theirprevious guest likes and dislikes at block 1104. This information mayprovide valuable insight into whether a potential set of guests would bea good match for this stylist. In a non-limiting example, previousguests may complain that the stylist particular style was too chic. Thisinformation may be used to understand how the stylist operates, andfurther if they have been successful with particular groupings ofguests.

At block 1106, the previously retrieved information from the guests andthe stylist may be used to curtail those potential guests into a guestlist. For example, the hostess information may have a number ofpotential guests but may not be a particular fit for this stylist basedon their information and how the stylist presents themselves. Thepotential guest list would be tailored using this information. In anexample, if a guest may need more handholding and a particular stylistdoes not wish to do this, then that guest may be eliminated from thevirtual live experience. The potential guests may be paired down toretrieve a final guest list. The processes may end at block 1108.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary screenshot 1200 showing the stylist portal forgenerating an invitation for the virtual live experience in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure. At a top portion 1202 of thescreenshot 1200, invites may be sent to multiple guests identified withthe guest list. The invite may come from the hostess or stylist. Thehostess or stylist may select “All Guests” or “Remaining Guests”. Byselecting “All Guests”, the invitation may be sent to those within theguest list regardless of whether they have been sent the invitationbeforehand. When “Remaining Guests” is selected, those who have notreceived the invitation may get it. These options are correlated to thetype of email being sent, for example, save the date, invite, reminder,and/or follow up. Guests may also be easily removed by clicking an “x”by their name. Checkboxes may be provided to CC the hostess and/orstylist.

On a bottom portion 1204 of the screenshot 1200, the invitation may becreated. A separate program may be used to generate the invitation.Templates may be used with personal modifications or adjustments fromthe stylist or hostess. Videos or short clips may be provided or madewithin this area. When the invitation is ready to be sent, names of theguests may be automatically populated within it. These invitations maybe sent via mail, or through electronic communications such as text oremail.

FIG. 13 is an exemplary block diagram 1300 depicting a neural network1312 for defining potential wardrobes for the VPS show in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure. In any particular session,clothing lines may have hundreds if not thousands of garments andaccessories. Inputs to the neural network 1312 may include guestinformation 1302, stylist information 1304, hostess information 1306,new trends information 1308, and new line up information 1310 togenerate a wardrobe or wardrobes 1314 for the stylist virtual show.

Wardrobes 1314 may be configured from the neural network 1312 withmachine learning and deep learning that provide artificial intelligencecapabilities that may be utilized to build and maintain a naturalisticscheme. The wardrobes may be generated by information from varioussources that may include, but are not limited to, the guest information1302, stylist information 1304, hostess information 1306, new trendsinformation 1308, and new line up information 1310. These inputs may beutilized by the neural network 1312 to provide various functions, whichmay include, but may not be limited to computer vision, objectclassification, feature recognition, and multilayer perceptions.Customer recommendations may be the primary focus. Recommendations maybe based on previous purchase history, favorites, current line, stylistrecommendations etc.

Visual features from the guest information 1302, stylist information1304, hostess information 1306, new trends information 1308, and newline up information 1310 may be extracted and associated with objectslocated within captured image frames. Specific stylized information maybe then gathered and processed by the neural network 1312 to generatethe wardrobe 1314.

Guest information 1302 may be preferences, past services or productspurchased, or social information, for example. Guest information 1302may come from a number of sources and places such as manually entered ininformation or automatically generated from previous shows orinteractions.

Stylist information 1304, which was fed into the neural network 1312 togenerate wardrobes 1314 may also be used. The stylist information mayinclude past line ups and their hottest sellers as well as their lowestperformers, for example. Hostess information 1306 may also be fed intothe neural network 1312. This information may include, but not limitedto, their previous guests likes and dislikes and hot sellers as well astheir particular clothing that was shown during previous direct sellingevents, for example.

Other information for creating the wardrobe 1314 for the virtual liveexperience may include new trends information 1308. New trends may beunderstood by the neural network 1312. New line up information 1310 fora particular company may also be taken in as input into the neuralnetwork 1312. Other information may be used and fed into the neuralnetwork 1312 to generate wardrobes 1314 that are in line with theinformation previously described.

The processes for using the neural network 1312 may include initiallytraining the neural network 1312 to identify wardrobes to be presentedby the stylist. This neural network 1312 may classify images of clothingand use them as examples to automatically infer rules for recognizingfeatures. By increasing the number of training samples, the neuralnetwork 1312 may learn more about the features, and thus improving itsaccuracy for feature classifications. These feature classificationsalong with the training images may then be used by the neural network1312 to generate wholly and entirely new wardrobes 1314 that the guests,stylists and hostess may find appealing from an upcoming collection.

In a non-limiting example, the wardrobe 1314 may be created using astyle matrix, which may be formed by matching based upon an attribute.The neural network 1312 may understand that individual garment andaccessories may be part of an outfit match set. In this way, thewardrobe 1314 may be a style recommendation to the guests. The goal ofthese recommendations may be twofold: (1) First to entice a customer toattend a show where they may see and try on these recommendations firsthand; and (2) Second to influence a purchase decision based on value.

Thus, through the neural network 1312, wardrobe 1314 and outfitrecommendations may use relevant information available. Theserecommendations may be presented to the customers directly and lead tohigh value sales opportunities for the stylist. The recommendations maybe based on a most recent season style, guest selected favorite items aswell as taking specific item rankings into consideration, previouspurchases that refresh past season purchases by combining them with newcurrent season items, guest profiles, sizing, style preferences, historyand favorites. These elements may be combined and analyzed by theartificial intelligence engine to provide the most relevant and highvalue wardrobe recommendations for the end consumer while minimizing theeffort by the stylist.

FIG. 14 is an exemplary screenshot 1400 providing an illustrativeinvitation to the virtual live experience in accordance with one aspectof the present disclosure. Through this invitation, guests may virtuallyattend a fashion experience by logging into the show and accessing thestylist's virtual showroom. The guests may see and hear each other asthe stylist guides them through an online shopping experience completewith a high quality fashion show providing each customer with stylingtips and personalize styling recommendation throughout. Customers maycatch up with friends and help each other select outfits.

A link 1402 may be provided to access the show. Once selected, the guestmay enter into their particular portal. A generalized invitation may beprovided or a personalized message may be given along with informationabout the event. Specific macros may be embedded into the email suchthat the specific event may be stored in the user's calendar ofpreference.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary screenshot 1500 depicting additional details forthe illustrative invitation to the virtual live experience in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure. This screenshot 1500 may beaccessed after the link was selected. The date and time may be shown onthe invite. Guests may be involved in the show process by providingsuggestions such as what type of styles they would like to see.

A button 1502 for starting the show may be provided. This may allow theguest to enter into the show. If the show has not begun, the link may beinactive. An advertisement 1504 may be displayed to generate interest.The advertisement 1504 may be in the form of a video, clip, or othermedia. A stylist picture 1506 and hostess picture 1508 may be shown inthe screenshot 1500.

FIG. 16 is an exemplary screenshot 1600 showing an illustrative loginsequence to the virtual live experience for a guest in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure. In a non-limiting example, theguests may enter in an email address 1602 and followed by a password1604 to enter the virtual live experience. Other configurations foraccessing may be used, for example, a show access code may be given tothose who may enter into the portal.

FIG. 17 is an exemplary screenshot 1700 showing a prompt requesting formore information from the guest in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure. This may allow a guest to complete their profile totake advantage of more features which may be personalized for them. Whenthe profile is complete, it may be used by the stylist or hostess tofacilitate the creation of wardrobes. Information such as body type,latest purchases, or the like may be entered in. Two options from thisscreenshot 1700 may be provided: “Complete My Profile” 1702 and “I'llComplete My Profile Later” 1704.

FIG. 18 is an exemplary screenshot 1800 requesting a current style fromthe guest in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Afterthe “Complete My Profile” option is selected, a query may be made to theuser, “How do you dress most often?” A selection may made be such as“Business”, “Casual”, or “Dressy”. Other options that may be selected bythe guests may include, for example, “Casual”, “Vintage”, “Artsy”,“Grunge”, “Chic”, “Bohemian”, or “Exotic”.

This information may be stored and reviewed by the stylist and/orhostess. In an example, and after this information is entered in, thestylist or hostess may determine that this particular guest is notsuitable for the wardrobes that will be shown in the virtual liveexperience. The stylist or hostess may subsequently invite them to othershows that would fit their particular preferences.

FIG. 19 is an exemplary screenshot 1900 showing a guest's portal for thevirtual live experience in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure. A top portion 1902 of the screenshot 1900 may show thestylist picture 1506 and hostess picture 1508. The pictures 1506 and1508 may be pulled from their profiles. Video feeds of the stylist andhostess may be provided if available such that real-time imagery isshown. Promotional videos may also be displayed.

At a bottom portion 1904 of the screenshot, an option of “Things to Do”to maximize the guest's “Front Row” experience may be provided. Theguest may complete their profile and/or check their microphone andcamera. A tutorial may be given on how to do these. The user may alsosee the advertisement, which was previously created above, for thevirtual live experience.

At a side portion 1906, all guests invited to the show may be seen alongwith the stylist information. A tab may be used to expand or hide a chatarea with the guests and stylist. While all guest chats may be shown,guests may also be provided with the opportunity to have private chatswith the stylist or hostess.

With reference to FIG. 20, an exemplary screenshot 2000 requesting thestylist to test their camera and microphone for the virtual liveexperience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure isprovided. A camera pull down menu 2002 may be given such that differentcameras associated with the stylist may be used. An integrated cameramay be used. Alternatively, a higher quality camera may be attached tothe stylist terminal. After being plugged into the computing device, thecamera may upload configuration files into the computing device for plugand play type settings.

A microphone menu 2004 may also be provided. In a non-limiting example,the stylist may select a microphone array. Higher grade audio devicesmay be used and connected similarly into the computing device for thestylist terminal. Audio settings may be adjusted in their computersettings. A test sound may also be played to determine whether themicrophone has been properly set up.

FIG. 21 is an exemplary screenshot 2100 allowing the guest to enter intoa pre-show phase for the virtual live experience which the stylistcontrols entry thereto in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure. A pop up box 2102 providing “Are you sure you want to startthe pre-show phase?” may be displayed. If the guests enter into thepre-show phase, the hostess, guests and stylists may get to know oneanother through informal chatting before the products or services areshown. Tutorials may be given by the stylist to the hostess and guests.This may include an explanation of how the processes work or videodescriptions may be played.

In the pre-show, there may be a meet and greet period that uses multiplevideo feeds. In a non-limiting example, the show may use a “Brady Bunch”style for displaying feeds from the hostess terminal, stylist terminal,and guest terminals. Furthermore, prefabricated marketing videos may beplayed at the beginning for a predetermined period of time.

FIG. 22 is an exemplary screenshot 2200 for the stylist of the virtuallive experience to verify that their camera and microphone is working aswell as provide additional functionality in accordance with one aspectof the present disclosure. The camera and microphone may be verifiedthat they are working. Settings may be edited directly through thewebsite. A “Start Now” button 2202 may be selected to begin the show.This screenshot 2200 provides a significant element of the system. Thisis the stylist dashboard for controlling the activity of the show.Through this, the stylist may view guest lists, conference status,control the flow of the show, select videos, see a video's progress,access slide out panels with additional key customer data (profile,address, closet, favorites, orders), copy a link for sharing shoppingaccess, chat bot visibility, chat with all and chat with individuals,control of broadcast focus speakers, access to stylist technicalsupport, search and share.

FIG. 23 is an exemplary screenshot 2300 for the stylist of the virtuallive experience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure.This stylist portal may be used for a number of different functions andfeatures. Fewer or more features may exist and should not be limited tothose shown. Furthermore, the configuration of the features is notlimited to the screenshot 2300. Settings for audio and visual may besetup at the top for either the stylist, hostess or guests.

Show states within the virtual live experience may be provided on a topbar 2320 of the screenshot 2300. These states may allow the stylist tocontrol the show's progress. In a non-limiting example, the top bar 2320may indicate that the virtual live experience is in an “INTRO” showstate. This state may be used by the stylist to introduce themselves aswell as how the show may be run. A “VIDEOS” state may be used by thestylist to prepare their videos, review their notes, and the like.Videos may be sorted allowing the stylist to play one video afteranother for a seamless experience.

A “SHOPPING” state within the top bar 2320 may indicate that thepurchasing of products or services has begun by the guests of thehostess. After viewing videos, products or services therein may bepurchased. The “END” state may provide that the virtual live experienceis finished.

Below the top bar 2320, a guest selector 2302 may be provided to viewguests in a guest area 2304 below. The selector 2302 may allow thestylist to choose different categories of guests. For example, and afterselecting “All”, guests that are displayed in the guest area 2304 wouldbe those that have been invited, regardless of whether they are withinthe virtual live experience for the direct selling event.

A “Present” selection may show those who are within the virtual show.That is, guests who are within the virtual live experience may be shown.A “RSVP” selection may be provided through a pulldown menu. Specificguests who reserved a space for the virtual live experience may beautomatically populated within the pull down menu. The stylist mayselect the guest by scrolling up or down the pull down menu.

Once a selection is made above, the selected guests are shown within theguest area 2304. More than one selection may be made with each selectionpotentially causing those guests that fit the selection to be pulleddown and displayed in the guest area 2304. Next to the selected guestsmay be “status” indicators or icons that show whether that guest hasenabled or disabled their camera or audio. The stylists may be able tocontrol the guest's camera or audio through the icons, for example. Insituations where the stylist or hostess wants to control the virtuallive experience, they may turn on/off these indicators.

Other information relevant to the virtual live experience may beprovided by the selected guests. In a non-limiting example, “Fays” and“Order” may be shown. The favorites indicator may show the quantity ofproducts or services which the guest has selected. The order indicatormay indicate an amount, for example in the form of a quantity, for whichthe guest has purchased in the virtual live experience for the directselling event. Further details will be provided below.

A stylist tab 2306, when selected, may show a live feed of the stylist.A hostess tab 2308 may also be provided which shows the hostess livefeed. Avatars or pictures may also be shown for the tabs 2306 and 2308.Through the live feed, expressions and emotions may be captured withinthe direct selling event. The stylist or hostess may be creative on whatis shown on the display. If a stylist or hostess is enthusiastic aboutthe opportunities, then the guests may be able to see that. When eitherthe stylist tab 2306 or hostess tab 2308 is selected, that output ofthat tab 2306 or 2308 may be streamed to the guest terminals, making thetab selection important.

In the stylist portal as shown in the screenshot 2300, the stylist mayhave a number of videos 2310 (or media) setup for showing products orservices. The videos 2310 may be stored within the web server which wasdescribed earlier. When selected through a pulldown menu, the video 2310may be shown to the hostess and guests. Previews of the videos 2310 maybe provided such that they are not automatically played when selected.Typically, the videos 2310 may be numerically and alphabetically sorted.Other types of media may also be shown or displayed, such as audiofiles.

In addition, a description 2312 of the videos 2310 may be provided belowthe video, which was selected by a pulldown menu. The length of thevideo may be given. A product or service description that the stylist istrying to sell may be shown. For example, if the video contains threegarments and accessories, images of those may be shown nearby.

A chat area 2314 is also shown within the stylist portal. The chat area2314 may allow each of the participants to communicate with one another.This may occur when a video 2310 is played or during other times withinthe virtual live experience for the direct selling event. Typically, theguests' microphones and cameras are disabled during the show such thatthey may concentrate on the content within the videos 2310.

In one configuration for the chat area 2314, the participant who lastsent a message may be given an indicator by their name, and as shown,“Betty”, who is the stylist. The message 2316 from Betty may be “Lights!Camera! Action! Front Row will start soon.” This phrase may begin thevirtual live experience for the direct selling event.

Below the chat area 2314 is a text entry area 2318. The text entry area2318 may be used to enter in a new message. Messages may indicate howthe show is going, discussions with other participants, or the like. Thelast participant to enter in a message may have the indicator moved totheir name.

In one embodiment and to facilitate the virtual live experience, a chatbot may facilitate the conversions within the chat area 2314. The chatbot may facilitate the conversation by removing the burden of having toactually type in messages. Instead, the messages may be pre-establishedand may automatically populate the chat area 2314, for example.

Referring to FIG. 24, exemplary screenshots 2400 for enabling a chat botfeature for the virtual live experience which is accessible by systemadministrators in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosureare provided. The chat bot, from pre-established triggers 2402, mayevaluate the virtual live experience and feed pre-populated messages tofacilitate the show without the stylist or hostess having to providetheir own messages. The triggers 2402 and message associations may comein a variety of forms and are not limited to those shown below.

Triggers 2402 that may cause a pre-populated message to be displayed maybe related to messages typed within the chat area, such as automatedresponses. Show processes may also be triggers 2402. For example, whenthe stylist begins the virtual live experience, a trigger 2402 may beenabled that would allow for messaging to be provided to the guestdevices to indicate that the show has begun. Other stages of the showmay also provide a trigger 2402 in the chat area. Some examples oftriggers 2402 may include, but are not limited to, “Warehouse LoginMessage”, “My Team Message”, “Commission Report Message”, “Product Watchlist Message”, “Show Order Note”, “Go Order Note”, “Backoffice Home PageMessage”, “Show Schedule Screen Message”, “Bot Message—Show Start”, “BotMessage—Welcome To Show”, “Bot Message—Video 1 Starting”, “BotMessage—Video 2 Starting”, “Bot Message—Video 3 Starting”, “BotMessage—Time To Shop”, “Bot Message—Show Has Ended”, “Bot Message—Showhas Closed”, “Bot Message—User Placed an Order”, “Bot Message—Send tostylist”, and “Bot Message—Heading”. As shown in Table 4 below, specifictriggers 2402 may coincide with specific messages within the chat area.

TABLE 4 Trigger 1: When a user first Post: Welcome! Have fun chattinglogs in and RSVP. with your fellow guests. The show will start atapprox. (show date (mm/dd hh/mm)) Trigger 2: When the stylist Post: Theshow is starting - Get ready starts the show. for your camera and audio.Trigger 3: After each video Video 1 Post: First part of front row (Video1, Video 2, Video is on now, your stylist will return 3, etc.) shortlyafter the video finishes. Video 2 Post: Second part of front row is onnow, and your stylist will return again. Video 3 Post: We've wrapped upour videos and you'll be able to shop soon and get back to seeing andtalking to your stylist and fellow guests soon. Trigger 4: When stylistsPost: Time to shop! moves to shopping. Trigger 5: When stylist Post:Stylist (FN) has ended this front ends show. row experience but feelfree to keep chatting and shopping! Trigger 6: (If possible) When Post:Stylist (FN) has closed this show. show is closed. If you like you canshop additional pieces on their website at (replicated website URL) orcontact her to book a front row experience for yourself and friends!Trigger 7: When user Post: (FN) just placed an order! Way places order.to go FN.

Through the triggers 2402, the chat bot may automatically push messagesto the guests. Automated responses to the guests' questions may also beprovided through the chat bot. For example, certain colors for productsmay be provided to a guest who requests such information. The onlinesocial and collaborative commerce system may search through its internaldatabase for this information and provide the automated response.

An administrator for the online social and collaborative commerce systemmay be able to change the content 2404 for the chat bot. Through aseparate privileged area, the triggers 2402 associated with the messagesmay be defined by the content 2404. The message may be modified usingHTML and associated with a label, the label defining the trigger 2402.

Advantageously, these triggers 2402 and associated messages may becoordinated with the stylist and hostess such that the show, or partsthereof, may be run automatically and the stylist may focus theirattention on other areas of the virtual live experience. Their focusshould typically be on the selling of products or services, not on itemswithin the show that are commonly performed.

Turning to FIG. 25, an exemplary screenshot 2500 showing the stylist'sportal for the virtual live experience in accordance with one aspect ofthe present disclosure is provided. The pull down menu for the videos2310 may be expanded. When expanded, multiple videos 2310 may be shown.The stylist may scroll down through their predefined videos 2310 to showto the guest. The hostess and stylist real-time feeds, or otherinformation, may be displayed on the top of the screenshot 2500 in a“Brady Bunch” style.

FIG. 26 is an exemplary screenshot 2600 showing a search and share focusby the stylist for the virtual live experience in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure. The stylist may share in the chat area2314 a specific product or service that they wish to highlight before,during or after a video 2310 is played. In the shown example, “Video 1”has been selected by the stylist and is shown to the guest terminalthrough their portal.

A guest, for example Cara, has provided a message 2604 of “Excited to behere” within the chat area 2314. Following, the stylist may provideinformation on how the virtual live experience may work. In anon-limiting example, a message 2606 of “Hello, gorgeous! Click theheart every time you see a piece you love, and you'll see your Stylistagain soon.” may be posted within the chat area 2314. This message 2606may be automatically triggered through the chat bot freeing the stylistfrom having to enter in new messages.

Following, the stylist may send a message 2608 in the chat area 2314 toa specific guest. The message 2608 may allow the user to scroll acrossdifferent products or services. These products or services maycorrespond or be associated with those shown in the video 2310. Themessage 2608 may also be provided in a product carousel, which will bedescribed below. The product carousel may be in a separate area providedin the guest' portal.

By selecting the product or service in the message 2608, the participantmay purchase them or store them for later review. After the guest hasreviewed the product or service, they may choose to send or cancel theirselections. The message 2608 may show the complexity of the chat area2314 by allowing multi-media features. This advantageously enhances thevirtual live experience of the direct selling event.

Each guest portal may receive the message 2608 within the chat area 2314regarding the products or service. Individualized information for theguests may be stored for later use by the online social andcollaborative commerce system. In one embodiment, information may bedisplayed on what other guests are selecting. These selections may drawinterest by the guest possibly influencing their future purchasedecisions.

The guest area 2304, as described above, may be populated withinformation regarding the virtual live experience for the direct sellingevent. During the showing of the video 2310, the cameras and microphonesof the guests may be deactivated as shown. Information about the “Fays”and “Order” may be also be provided in the guest area 2304. Cara, forexample, has selected as her favorites two items and has purchased six.Dillon, another guest, has selected nine as his favorites and hasordered seven, while Elsa has selected four has her favorites andordered two. Thus, the guest area 2304 may provide pertinent informationfor the stylist on tracking their statistics. The stylist may use thisto gauge how they are performing and if they should change theirstrategy for the virtual live experience.

In the screenshot 2600, the stylist may be interested in a specificguest, Cara. By selecting them (either by clicking on their name in theguest area 2304 or through other method), an indicator is shown by theirname in the chat area 2314. The selection may cause only messages by theselected guest within the chat area 2314 to be displayed along withmessages from the hostess or stylist. Thus, the interface may be providea one-to-one conversation between a specific guest and the stylist orhostess. In one embodiment, the selection of the specific guest maycause the guest's feed or picture to be shown on the upper portion ofthe screenshot 2600.

FIG. 27 is an exemplary screenshot 2700 showing the stylist's portal forthe virtual live experience to view a specific guest's specificfavorites in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Theguests, after selecting their favorites, may be given a message 2702 of“You've selected your Favorites. It's time to pick which of theseFavorites will come home to you. Happy Shopping!”. Other messages may beprovided indicating similar content. These may be generated and providedwithin the chat area 2314 by the chat bot.

The stylist from their view may see those items that were selected bythe guest, in this example, Cara C. Cara has selected two items as herfavorites: a garment and their accessory. In a display area 2704 forthis particular guest, the stylist may view their selections. Throughthis view the stylist may evaluate what the guest is interested in orhas purchased. Suggestions or comments may be made to the guest by thestylist in the chat area 2314, which may be between them only.

FIG. 28 is an exemplary screenshot 2800 showing the stylist's portal forthe virtual live experience to view a specific guest's style profile inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Through thesescreens, that are specific to the selected guest, the stylist may findinformation about them and possibly, how to run or direct the virtuallive experience. The “Style Profile” tab 2802, as shown, may include theinformation regarding the guest's specific style. This information mayinclude categories of: “Most often Dresses:”, “Describes style as:”,“Body Shape:”, “Size Category:”, “Like to Accentuate:”, and “Dislikes:”A stylist may also view a customer's closet through a separate tablocated within this screenshot 2800.

“Style Matches” that may fit the particular guest may be shown. Thesemay include, but are not limited to, “Tops”, “Sweaters”, “Bottoms”,“Skirts or Dresses” and “Jacket”. When selected, different items may beshown to the stylist. These may be specific to the selected guest. Theseselections may be defined through the neural network described above.The neural network may use guest, stylist, hostess, new trends, and newline up information to define wardrobes for that guest. Alternatively,the stylist may have chosen the style for that guest beforehand. Thisinformation may be used by the stylist to present to the guest.

The stylist or guest themselves may make edits. Under “Edit in ContactManager”, different information may be set. For example, guest sizessuch as “Bust”, “Bra”, “Waist”, “Hips”, “Insize”, “Tight”, “Trouser”,“Jacket”, “Skirt”, “Dresses”, and “Show” may be edited. Pulldown menusmay be used. Artificial intelligence may be used where a guest'sclothing may be scanned with the guest in them and the information maybe automatically populated. Pictures of the guest may also be part ofthe “Style Profile” tab 2802.

In the shown embodiment, the stylist may have provided the “GraceTrouser” within the chat area 2314. This may be based on the “StyleMatches” in the “Style Profile” tab 2802. The stylist may have selectedbottoms and the product may have been suggested for the stylist topresent to the guest based on their information.

With reference to FIG. 29, an exemplary screenshot 2900 showing thestylist's portal for the virtual live experience to view the specificguest's contact information in accordance with one aspect of the presentdisclosure is provided. A “Contact Details” tab 2902 may be provided toview this information. The information may include an email and mailingaddress of the guest. A separate shipping address may be provided, whichmay be different from the mailing address.

A phone number may be part of the “Contact Details” tab 2902 along withtheir birthday. Interests of the guest may be provided such as, but notlimited to, “Hosting”, “Becoming a Stylist”, “End of Season Sale”, and“New Arrivals”. The interests may be part of metadata tags that whensearched may pull up this particular guest. A notes section may also beused to determine any other pertinent information. In a non-limitingexample, personal preferences may be entered such as “Married withKids”.

FIG. 30 is an exemplary screenshot 3000 showing the stylist's portal forthe virtual live experience to view a specific guest's order inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. The stylist maysee this information through the “Order” tab 30002. Individualized itemswithin the guest's shopping bag may be shown. Sizes along with adescription of each may be displayed by the item. A total amount forthese items along with individual prices may be displayed.

FIG. 31 depicts exemplary screenshots 3000 showing the illustrativelogin sequence to the virtual live experience for the guest inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. In a typicalsequence, the guest may enter in their email address along with apassword. The online social and collaborative commerce system may thenauthenticate the user. Afterwards, the system may prompt the user to“Let's get Personal”. The guest may complete their profile which may beused by the stylist to personalize a look for them.

Turning to FIG. 32, an exemplary screenshot 3200 showing an actionbutton or prompt for the guest to join the virtual live experience inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure is provided. Thisaction button or prompt, which may come in the form of a link, mayprovide access to the web server and to the specific website or pagegenerated for this particular direct selling event. If the show is notready to be started, the action button or prompt may be disabled. Acounter may be provided on this page to indicate when the show willbegin.

FIG. 33 is an exemplary screenshot 3300 requesting from the guest toallow their camera and microphone to be shared to join the virtual liveexperience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Eachtime a new show is generated, the guest may be asked to confirm that thestylist may be able to use their camera and microphone. The guest mayeither allow or block this request. A button may be provided so that theguest may join the show.

FIG. 34 is an exemplary screenshot 3400 showing a continuation of amicrophone and/or camera check for the virtual live experience inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Once the cameraand microphone are enabled, guests may join the show. The guests may beable to edit their settings and then join the show.

Referring to FIG. 35, an exemplary screenshot 3500 informing the guesthow to control their camera and microphone as well as describing to thema live real-time chat feature in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure is provided. Through this portal, the guest may beshown or informed how to control their camera and microphone. Theirattention may be called to the live real-time chat feature within thechat area 2314. The guests, hostess, and stylist may use this area 2314to voice their likes or dislikes. New messages may be provided on thebottom of the chat area 2314 by the guest. This screenshot 3500 maypresent the host in a broadcast focus (the hostess' friends with theguests and therefore is immediately in front and center stage).

At the top of the screenshot, the “Brady-Bunch” style presentation 3502of the parties within the virtual live experience for the direct sellingevent may be shown. The stylist, hostess, and guests may be presented atthe top. Live feeds, other pictures or indicators may be shown for eachof the participants. In one embodiment, the stylist and hostess may beshown on the furthest left corner to give them priority over the guests.Alternatively, the icon or feed for the last party to speak may beshifted furthest to the left.

Control may be given to how the video is focused depending on whichstage the virtual live experience is in. Focus may be on the hostess,then the stylist. This process may go back and forth between the stylistand hostess. The stylist may control who is in front and center in afocus panel. In a typical process, the hostess may begin the show asthey are more familiar with the guests. The hostess may then givecontrol to the stylist after thanking the guests for attending thedirect selling event.

FIG. 36 is an exemplary screenshot 3600 showing a playing of videosalong with a product carousel 3602 of items within the video 2310 inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. The video 2310 mayhave been previously selected by the stylist. On the stylist terminaland through their unique portal, the stylist may play the video 2310which may be streamed into the guest's terminal in real-time. The guestmay see each model in the video rotate and move for displaying productsor services to be purchased in the virtual live experience for thedirect selling event. The guests, stylist and hostess may chat duringthe display of the video 2310 in the chat area 2314.

Below the video 2310, may be the product carousel 3602. Services mayalso be provided within the carousel 3602. The carousel 3602 may showitems that the model is wearing in the particular video 2310. The guestsmay favorite a particular product or service by selecting a heart iconby the product or service, for example. This may automatically save theproduct or service for a future purchase. Alternatively, the guest mayproceed directly to the purchase.

In one embodiment, the carousel 3602 may display those items that areshown within the video 2310 as they are introduced or shown by the modelin the video 2310. The stylist or hostess may highlight the particularitem within the chat area 2314 or they may be given special toolsprovided in their portals to draw attention to that item in the video2310. After highlighting the item, it may be placed into the carousel3602. Alternatively, each and every product or service may be displayedwithin the carousel 3602 when the video 2310 is shown without anystylist's highlights. The guest may select the product or service withinthe carousel 3602 and additional information may be displayed about theitem. In a non-limiting example, this information may include season ofintroduction, cost, reviews, or the like. Other videos 2310 portrayingthe product or services may also be displayed.

In one embodiment, the video 2310 may be reversed, paused, or forwardedby the guest. While one video 2310 may be shown to the entire set ofguests for the virtual live experience, other configurations may becontemplated. For example, different and unique videos 2310 may beprovided to individual guests at the same time such that one guest mayview a different video 2310 from another guest. In another embodiment,different products or services within the carousel 3602 may behighlighted for the same video 2310 to different guests. For example,one guest may be interested in accessories while another guest may beinterested in the clothing.

An account check tab 3604 may be provided. This may allow a guest tocheck their account. This may direct the guest portal to another websitewithin the server. The guest may determine how much they have purchased,items they have placed as their favorite, or the like.

In one embodiment, live streamed shows from the stylist or hostessterminals may be provided, instead of the pre-established videos 2310described above. The models may be given queues from the stylist when tomodel the products or services. A “Model Instruction (Live)” tab 3606may be used by the guest as well. Guests may give the models directionsin real-time for example, “I would like to see the back again, pleaseturn around.” Voice or text communications may then be provided to themodel on their own terminals. Further, instructions may be given by theguest to the model to mix and match different clothing items such thatdifferent pairings may be shown in real time. This would allow a moreinteractive environment similar to a home show.

The guests may also be provided a “Freeze Frame” tab 3608. Whenselected, an image or clip of the video 2310 may be taken along withthose products or services in the carousel 3602 and stored for laterviewing. After, or during, the virtual live experience, the guest mayview the frame to determine whether they may want to purchase theproduct or service. This allows the guest to view in context thoseproducts or services at a later time.

In one example of machine learning within the guest portal, items may betagged depending on the particular frame that was taken by the “FreezeFrame”. When the guest tags and stores a particular pose within thevideo 2310, machine learning may be used to determine that the guest maybe interested only in a particular item such as pants. Machine learningmay be used to track the particular pants and provide a variety ofoptions to purchase the tagged pants. Other views of the pants may alsobe given that are not in the video 2310, but that have been saved withinthe system. Similar items with different colors may also be shown to theguest. Typically, a system may use a scoring system.

A “Jump to Group View” tab 3610 may be provided within the guest portal.The group view may be similar to the “Brady Bunch” views describedabove. By providing a group view, the guest may see other guests'reactions. In one embodiment, the guest may view or see what others arepurchasing or what they have selected as their favorites. Typically,however, the guests' cameras and microphones are disabled when the video2310 is shown.

A “Highlight Feature” tab 3612 may be provided to the guest throughtheir portal. The guest may highlight features on the incoming video2310 from the stylist. The highlight of products or services by theguest may be communicated to the stylist or hostess portals. Annotationsto the highlights may also be produced. For example, a guest mayhighlight a model's necklace within the video 2310 and annotate it with“Does this come in different colors?” This information may then betransmitted to the stylist and hostess portals. If the color does exist,the stylist or hostess may provide the product for purchase in the chatarea 2314 or within the carousel 3602. The product or service may alsobe placed in the guest's favorites. The chat bot described above may beable to provide this information without the stylist or hostessresponse.

FIG. 37 is an exemplary screenshot 3700 showing the guest after thevideo is played in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure.Once the video or all the videos have been completed, each guest may beasked to turn on their video and camera to rejoin the other guests ofthe virtual live experience for the direct selling event. In anon-limiting example, a “View My Favorites” tab 3702, “Look Book” tab3704, and “Shop Collection” tab 3706 may be provided.

The “View My Favorites” tab 3702 may allow the guest to view theirfavorites. Their favorites may have been saved during the show byselecting the heart icon on the product or service. Past favorites mayalso be shown based on previous virtual live experiences relate to otherdirect selling events. Products or services that have been tagged as afavorite may be sorted by price or by show. Varying levels of tags maybe used to identify the guest's favorites. For example, a five starsystem may be used. Favorites may then be sorted by those which get thehighest number of stars. This may be where there are opportunities tosee other outfit recommendations along with the items selected asfavorites.

The “Look Book” tab 3704 may be provided on the guest's portal. The lookbook may be a collection of photographs compiled to show off a model,photographer, style, stylist, or clothing line. The look book may be a“pretty” view of all inventory available for sale that season. Theinventory may be presented as groupings worn by the photography modelsin a more natural way than product detail pages in the shop collectionview. The look book may discern fashionable looks for the current monthor season. This may give the guest ideas on how to style outfits, or toshow what the latest fashions are. By selecting the “Look Book” tab3704, the guest may access their own “fashion diary” which may beupdated on a daily or weekly basis. A specific model, stylist,celebrity, politician or socialite may be followed and their looks maybe compiled within the look book. This may be implemented outside of thevirtual live experience or within it.

The “Shop Collection” tab 3706 may also be accessed through thescreenshot 3700 by the guest. The shop collection may be a display ofproducts or services presented by the company that put together thedirect selling event. The products or services may be sorted within theshop collection by gender, tops, bottoms, accessories, or the like. Theymay also be sorted by dates introduced into the collection. If thecompany no longer supports the particular products or services, a thirdparty vendor who deals in used or secondary markets for the products orservices may be linked to within this tab 3706.

Turning to FIG. 38, an exemplary screenshot 3800 showing a searchclothing feature 3802 within the chat area 2314 in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure is provided. The search clothingfeature 3802 may not be limited to products. It may also be extended toservices or other items that are commonly associated with a directselling event. While the search clothing feature 3802 is shown in thechat area 2314, pop up boxes or other mechanisms may be used toimplement the search clothing feature 3802.

In operation, the search clothing feature 3802 may be selected. Insteadof a typical message input into the chat area 2314, the selection maycause a search bar to be displayed. The guest, after the selection ofthe search clothing feature 3802 is made, may type in what they arelooking for, i.e., a search query. In the shown example, the guest maytype in the word “Cami” into the search clothing feature 3802.

The online social and collaborative commerce system may process theinput, retrieve items that may be relevant to the input, and providethose items as a message 3804 within the chat area 2314. Two items areshown within the message 3804 after the word “Cami” has been input intothe search clothing feature 3802. A scroll bar may be provided if moreitems are found such that the guest may look through them as well.

The search clothing feature 3802 may be used independent of the virtuallive experience for the direct selling event or in combinationtherewith. The search clothing feature 3802 may be used in an ordinarychat function or may be used with the virtual live experience, forexample, if an item is not listed within the product carousel, the guestmay be able to search for the item. This information may be conveyed tothe stylist such that they may be able to provide additional informationor suggest other items similar to the input provided in the searchclothing feature 3802.

In one example, if a “Yellow Hat” is not within the product carousel,the guest may type in this input into the search clothing feature 3802.Products having that feature may be then shown within the chat area2314. Images of yellow hats may be pushed to the guest. This may beindividualized based on the guest's input into the search clothingfeature 3802.

FIG. 39 is an exemplary screenshot 3900 showing a linked websiteassociated with the search clothing feature in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure. The guest, after being presented withthe items in the chat area, may be able to select those items. The itemswithin the chat area may be embedded with a URL, which when actuatedlinks them to the proper website for that particular item. In theexample, a camisole is shown on a website after it was selected in thechat area of the virtual live experience.

FIG. 40 is an exemplary screenshot 4000 showing an end of the virtuallive experience in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure.A message of “This Front Row experience has ended. Don't worry, you maystill shop and chat with the group” may be provided. A continue buttonmay be displayed on the bottom. This may officially end the live portionof the show.

With reference to FIG. 41, a flow chart depicting illustrative processesfor generating a guest experience report card in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure is provided. These processes may beused after the virtual live experience for the direct selling eventends. As an illustration, these processes may generate a report cardmade by the guest. Information may be taken by the guest's experience.This information may be used to understanding a guest's needs and wantsto entice them into other future shows. The processes may begin at block4100.

At block 4102, the system may receive user feedback. This may begeneralized to a like or dislike of the entire show process. Inaddition, specific comments may be used. The comments may be parsedthrough by automated methods to derive a score for their experience.Comments may be specifically directed to the hostess, stylist, or theentire show. Favorites and orders may also be used as an indicator forthe guest experience report card.

At block 4104, the system may track time spent for making the comments.If the user spends very little time on making these comments, it may beassumed that the virtual live experience was positive and it wassuccessful. Negative comments may be left as well. Both positive andnegative comments may be used to modify future virtual live experiences.

Facial recognition may be used, at block 4106, by the online social andcollaborative commerce system and method to evaluate a guest'sexperience. Facial expressions may be extracted during the show.Expressions such as smiling may indicate that the virtual liveexperience is working. Tired expressions may show that the guest is notinterested or does not care for this platform.

The information presented above may be used to generate the report cardat block 4108. The report card may give a total experience indicationfor the guest. A number of factors may contribute to this, for example,whether the stylist and hostess combination worked. The accumulation ofthe direct guest feedback along with time spent on comments and facialrecognition may be a valuable tool for judging how the event went.Issues derived from the report card related to the virtual liveexperience may be corrected. The processes may end at block 4110.

FIG. 42 is an exemplary screenshot 4200 showing a landing page for theguest after the virtual live experience has ended in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure. The guest may return back to theirportal to re-watch the previously sent videos by the stylist. An ordermay be placed or edits may be made to an existing order. The “View MyFavorites” tab 3702, “Look Book” tab 3704, and “Shop Collection” tab3706 may be presented, which were described above.

This post show landing page, shown within the screenshot 4200 may beflexible and may include anything that would support the experienceconverting into an order. Following the show, the stylist may postinformation on social media sites. Those postings may incentivize aviewer to purchase from that show. Clicking on that posting may lead tothis post show landing page to make a purchase. This may be useful forthose who did not participate in the show.

A show area 4202 may be provided such that the guest may revisit theirsaved videos or clips. Products or services within the videos or clipsmay be displayed once the video or clip has been selected. Depending onthe number of videos or clips within the show area 4202, a scroll barmay be enabled such that the guest may slide up and down through them.In a non-limiting example, if the user moves their cursor over the clip,the guest may be able to see a one or two second highlight.

Beforehand, the stylist and guest virtual live experiences weredescribed. Turning to FIG. 43, an exemplary screenshot 4300 showing thehostess' reminder for the virtual live experience in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure is provided. A video 4302 may bepresented in the form of an advertisement for the virtual liveexperience. Upcoming information 4304 may also be shown. Thisinformation may indicate that the experience is days away. Otherinformation may include a timing of the event, number of guests invited,and those committed to attending the show. The screenshot 4300 may alsoshow items that the hostess has favorited and other styling options.This may incentivize the hostess to have more ordering guests at theshow to increase their discounts to obtain those favorite items.

The hostess portal may also be used to add guest and send additionalinvites. Tips or recommendations may be given. For example, informationmay be given on how to have a successful fashion experience, forexample, “7 Simple Steps to a Successful Fashion Show”. These specificsteps may be shown through the portal.

FIG. 44 is an exemplary screenshot 4400 showing the hostess' ability toadd guests for the virtual live experience in accordance with one aspectof the present disclosure. An “Add Guests from your Contact Manager”option 4402 may allow a user to add a guest from their personalcontacts. A scroll down menu 4404 may allow the hostess to change whatthey want to enter in a field 4406. For example, after selecting“Hostess Contact Manager” in the scroll down menu 4404, the hostess maysearch their contacts within that particular folder by first or lastname in the field 4406.

The hostess may also search for guests by searching through previousshows 4408. One option may be to include “All Shows”, “Season” such asspring 2002, or “Show Date Range”. Information may be input into thissection as shown.

Contacts may be added through the tabs 4410 which define “Add NewContact” or “Import Contacts”. If the hostess selects “Add New Contact”,a pop up screen may be provided allowing them to define new contacts. Afirst name, last name, email address, and phone number may be used toadd a new contact, for example.

“Import Contacts” may be used by the hostess to generate new guestleads. Social networking contacts may be retrieved. Email contacts mayalso be used. APIs that are distributed by third party services mayprovide a handle for which these contacts may be gathered. When importedthe guest list may be automatically populated.

The guest list 4412 may be shown on the hostess portal. This may includethose guests that were invited above. A “Send Invites Now” button 4414may be displayed. After being selected, invites may be automaticallysent to the guests.

FIG. 45 is an exemplary screenshot 4500 showing the hostess' ability tosend invites for the virtual live experience in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure. The hostess may be given a number ofoptions 4502 for sending an invite in this example. The hostess may“Cancel”, “Preview” and “Send Invites”. Selecting “Cancel” may bring thehostess back to the previous screenshot. “Preview” provides the hostessto view the invite without sending it and “Send Invites” may begin thedistribution of the invitations.

The hostess may be presented with email options 4504. For example, thehostess may select between “Save the Date” and “Reminder”. “Save theDate” may allow an outlook or other calendaring system invite to beplaced into the invitation. When selected within the invitation, theinvite may be automatically populated into the guest's calendars.“Reminder” may also be used to give a notification before the directselling event is about to begin. This reminder may be given hours, days,weeks, or months before, for example.

Invitations may be “smart”. That is they may include customized orpersonalized content for the recipient. The goal for the invite is thatit may entice customers to attend through presenting options that theyare most likely to be interested in. Personalization may be a keycomponent to this experience.

The invitation may also be given “To” options 4506. This may limit theinvitation to “All Guests” or “Remaining Guests”. When “All Guests” hasbeen selected, invitations may be sent to all the guests regardless ofwhether they received the invitation or not in the past. “RemainingGuests” may indicate invitations to be sent to those who had notreceived it yet.

A copying option 4508 may be provided in one example. The hostess orstylist may be copied. Furthermore, a template selection 4510 may beprovided. The templates, which were defined above, may have beengenerated by the company hosting the direct selling event or may be morepersonalized by stylist or hostess.

FIGS. 46A and 46B is a flow chart depicting illustrative processes 4600for establishing the online social and collaborative commerce systemfrom the start to the end of the virtual live experience in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure. The processes may begin atblock 4602 where the stylist may post their calendar availability. Thestylist may post this information through their portal via the stylistterminal.

At block 4604, the hostess may pick a time on the stylist calendar tohost a show/personal styling or live event. The hostess may access theweb server through their portal by entering in their credentials. Dropdown menus may be provided that show the calendar of the stylist. Atblock 4606, the hostess may pick from the stylists availability to hosta show/person styling. The hostess may initiate the conversation. Thestylist may be unaware up until this point of the hostess' intentions.Alternatively, at block 4608, the hostess may request a day and timefrom the stylist to see their availability.

At block 4610, the system may notify the stylist of the request whetherit is within their schedule or not. This may be performed viaautomatically through email. Alternatively, the hostess and stylist maybe connected with one another through a call. At block 4612, the stylistmay have a real world conversation with the hostess about their request.This may be performed through video chat, instant messaging or othercommunication.

At decision block 4614, a determination may be made on whether thestylist accepts the requests to host the virtual live experience for thedirect selling event. If the stylist initiates the event, then thehostess may determine whether they want to accept the request or not.When the stylist accepts, at block 4616, the personal styling show iscreated on the web or application server. If not, the processes 4600return back up to blocks 4606 or 4608. The processes 4600 may also endif a stylist and hostess chose not to continue with a show.

At block 4618, the web server may automatically create a show and addthe hostess to a contact manager. At block 4620, the stylist or hostessmay send invitations to share the show information through a URL via theweb server. Alternatively, at block 4622, the stylist or hostess maysend invitations to share the show information through a URL via emailor text. In another alternative, at block 4624, the stylist or hostessmay share a URL via social media. At block 4626, the stylist or hostessmay share show information through a URL via email or text. At block4628, the link to the show may be made available via search engines.

At block 4630, the guest may retrieve invites or self-invite themselves.Self-invites may be through word of mouth and the guest may perform somefurther inquiring to get into the show. At block 4632, the guests may betaken to the show page, as well as the stylist and hostess. Video feedsand backend information may be setup or established.

At decision block 4634, a determination is made on whether the guest isanonymous, identified, or authorized. If the guest is anonymous, atblock 4636, the processes 4600 may be directed to block 4640 where theymay be required to login. When the guest has been identified, at block4638, an identified page is shown and the processes 4600 may proceed todecision block 4642, which will be described below. At block 4640, anauthorized page may be shown. This may require the participant to loginthrough a series of inputs such as email addresses and passwords. Apersonal profile associated with the account may be retrieved. This mayhave been filled out by the guest previously, or it may be filled outafter logging in or thereafter. This data from the profile may be fedinto the recommendations algorithm.

At decision block 4642, a determination may be made on whether theparties have reserved their spot in the virtual live experience for thedirect selling event. Typically, those that provide a “No” or “NoResponse” may not be allowed to enter the show at block 4644. Typically,they may still be able to shop online. At block 4646, the show maybegin. At block 4648, the stylist may provide preshow procedures. Forexample, these may include checking the guests' cameras and microphones.Pre-show procedures may also include, but are not limited to, reviewingthe guests' favorites, background information, and the like.

At block 4650, the stylist may provide show procedures. As describedearlier, this may be presenting videos to the guests within the virtuallive experience as well as providing specific details regarding productsor services within the chat area. At block 4652, a guest chat may bemade and a request for personal styling hosting time may be made. Thismay be made during the show. At block 4654, the guest may favorite ortag items and place orders. This may be made during the show. Thestylist may end the virtual session at block 4656.

At block 4658, the show has ended and a post-show period begins. Atblock 4660, after show interactions may occur. For example, and asfurther described above, chat interactions may be made between theparticipants. The guests may replay videos that were shown during theshow. Buying or purchasing opportunities may also exist after the liveshow has ended. Typically, there are two ending sequences: when the liveshow is over and when the show is closed and no additional orders may beplaced.

At block 4662, other sessions for the show may continue the sameprocesses. For example, different guests may go through the same processof viewing the videos after the show has ended and purchases of theproducts or services may be made. At block 4664, the stylist closes theshow after all the sessions are done. That is, the show ends after allthe guests are gone. At block 4666, an ending page is shown.

In addition to the embodiments and examples described above, a number ofvariations and/or additions may exist in the presented systems. Anintegrated online support for stylists, hostess and guests may beprovided. This support may occur in real-time through a third partyoperator or may be implemented through an automated system using machinelearning to understand incoming questions and provide them withautomated responses.

Live system monitoring may be tied into the system's backend. Themonitoring may be programmed with error checks and fail safe mechanisms.Alerts may be provided to the user (stylist, host or guest) when theirparticular system is failing. The system may try to remedy itself orself-reboot.

In another addition to the system, a one click entry point may beprovided. This would streamline events and entrance into the virtuallive experience. For example, the user may bypass the preshow. Thesingle click would provide them directly into the experience.Furthermore, one single click option that may exist in the system is theremoval of signing in with their personal preferences. In this way, theuser may enter into the virtual live experience as an unknown user, thatis, a guest with no pre-established information.

In one embodiment, an API may be provided to administrators,facilitators, and the like to provide exposure into the system atdifferent connection points. A microsite may be securely tethered intothe system through a connection point. Shipping modules may also beconnected as well as other ecommerce sites.

Third party products and product inventory may be integrated into thesystem. Other potential products and/or services may be tied into thesystem such that it goes beyond that of the owner's products. That is,and by having additional pooling of resources, customers may be moreinclined to use this system through the variety. Custom shippingfeatures may be provided.

Loyalty programs may also be incorporated into the system. These may betired to monetary rewards or credits within the system. The system mayalso be tied to social media accounts. It may be integrated into thirdparty commerce solutions as well as TAP/Styling tool/recommendationsengines.

Analytics and periodic reporting modules may be used and a part of thesystems. Analytics on the stylist, hostess and/or guests may beprogrammed. These may provide valuable tools for corporate analytics andpredictive analytics.

The system may incorporate product merchandising. That is, it mayprovide the ability to present capsules or different ways to presentproduct lines. For example, videos may be more effective to showclothing, while virtual experiences may be more suited for real estateservices. Through these capsules, the user may have the ability tochange and have different product lines.

Artificial intelligence may be used to create a “look machine”. Theselook machines may create a corporate created look. The machine would beused to design the look and be approved by others.

A user may experience the system in a number of different forms.Unstructured experiences may be facilitated through the system, that is,the user may talk over videos and present content in any order orsequence. Personal appointments may be given, by either a stylist orhostess. Live or recorded events may be given. Visualization offavorites, that is hearts, charts, etc., may be shown. Enhancedsocialization time before, during and after the live show may be afeature as well as enhancing group shopping experiences.

In one embodiment, a group closet and recommendations review may beprovided within the system. Items may be highlighted in the closet forgroup shopping. Paper dolls, or other avatars, may be used for tryingoutfits on.

Microsites within the system may be incorporated therein. Thesemicrosites may provide a more robust and personalized site (before andafter). The user may customize the microsite with messaging from astylist, CEO, and the like. Templates may be uploaded. This may allowfor customizations while using common technical constructs. A user maybe able to build their own custom microsite.

The system may also provide personalization. Smart invites may includepersonalized recommendations. A styling tool may include recommendationsand customizations. A user may consume and utilize profile data moreeffectively to make recommendations and customized experiences onmicrosites. A user may personalize a virtual “living room”, that is, abusiness motif, seasonal motif, casual motif, formal living room motif,and the like. Reminders, tasks and next steps may also be personalized.

Looks may be saved into a filing system. Stylist created looks may besaved as well as guest created looks. These may be saved by the stylistor guest. In one example, a guest may save the look created by anotherguest.

In one embodiment, the system may incorporate augmented reality (AR)technology. AR may allow a user to view a look from all angles. Otherbenefits and advantages through AR may be given through the system.Furthermore, image recognition may be incorporated into the system.Image recognition may be used to determine body types and styles. Thismay be used to determine a proper look. Geolocation services may also beused. This may affect the look of the user. For example, if the user isin the desert, looks may be suggested or recommended as such.

The methods and processes described in the disclosure may be embodied ascode and/or data, which may be stored in a non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium as described above. When a computersystem reads and executes the code and/or data stored on thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium, the computer systemperforms the methods and processes embodied as data structures and codeand stored within the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.Furthermore, the methods and processes described may be included inhardware modules. For example, the hardware modules may include, but arenot limited to, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chips,field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and other programmable-logicdevices now known or later developed. When the hardware modules areactivated, the hardware modules perform the methods and processesincluded within the hardware modules.

The technology described herein may be implemented as logical operationsand/or modules. The logical operations may be implemented as a sequenceof processor-implemented executed steps and as interconnected machine orcircuit modules. Likewise, the descriptions of various component modulesmay be provided in terms of operations executed or effected by themodules. The resulting implementation is a matter of choice, dependenton the performance requirements of the underlying system implementingthe described technology. Accordingly, the logical operations making upthe embodiment of the technology described herein are referred tovariously as operations, steps, objects, or modules. It should beunderstood that logical operations may be performed in any order, unlessexplicitly claimed otherwise or a specific order is inherentlynecessitated by the claim language.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be programmed using anobject-oriented programming language, such as SmallTalk, Java, C++, Adaor C#. Other object-oriented programming languages may also be used.Alternatively, functional, scripting, and/or logical programminglanguages may be used. Various aspects of this disclosure may beimplemented in a non-programmed environment, for example, documentscreated in HTML, XML, or other format that, when viewed in a window of abrowser program, render aspects of a GUI or perform other functions.Various aspects of the disclosure may be implemented as programmed ornon-programmed elements, or any combination thereof.

The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled inthe relevant art to practice the various embodiments described herein.Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent tothose skilled in the relevant art and generic principles defined hereinmay be applied to other embodiments. Thus, the claims are not intendedto be limited to the embodiments shown and described herein, but are tobe accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims,wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean“one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.”All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the variousembodiments described throughout this disclosure that are known or latercome to be known to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art areexpressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to beencompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein isintended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether suchdisclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for direct selling through a remote platform, comprising: a memory for storing computer readable code; and a processor operatively coupled to the memory, the processor configured to: receive information for creating a direct selling event; generate a specific website from the information for the direct selling event; launch a first portal, second portal and at least one other portal to the specific website for the direct selling event; wherein said first portal is a stylist portal, said second portal is a hostess portal and said at least one other portal is a guest portal.
 2. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 1, wherein the processor sends an electronic invitation to access the specific website before the direct selling event begins.
 3. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 1, wherein the processor receives a selection of media from the first portal and displays the media within the at least one other portal.
 4. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 3, wherein the media comprises a live stream showing at least one product or service and a carousel for purchasing the at least one product or service.
 5. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 4, wherein the processor receives a selection within the carousel for the at least one product or service to be purchased.
 6. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 4, wherein the processor receives a selection within the carousel for the at least one product or service to be saved and viewed at a later time.
 7. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 1, wherein the processor sends a reminder for the direct selling event before it starts.
 8. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 1, wherein a chat area is provided for the first portal, second portal and at least one other portal.
 9. The system for direct selling through the remote platform of claim 8, wherein the chat area comprises a search feature linking a product or service within the chat area to a query.
 10. A non-transitory machine-readable storage medium comprising instructions, which when implemented by one or more machines, cause the one or more machines to perform operations comprising: generating a website having a first portal, second portal and at least one other portal for a virtual direct selling event; and receiving from the first portal a selection of products or services to be displayed on the at least one other portal for purchase during the virtual direct selling event with the second portal facilitating the virtual direct selling event.
 11. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein generating the website for the virtual direct selling event comprises receiving a time and date for the virtual direct selling event.
 12. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein the operations further comprise generating a guest list for the virtual direct selling event.
 13. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 12, wherein generating the guest list comprises: retrieving associations from hostess information; retrieving stylist information; and matching the associations from the hostess information with the stylist information to generate potential guests for filling the guest list.
 14. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the operations further comprise editing the guest list from the hostess portal.
 15. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein the operations further comprise sending the at least one other portal to a holding room and connecting the at least one other portal to a video bridge with the first portal and second portal when the direct selling event begins.
 16. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein the first portal controls a selection of media displayed on the at least one other portal.
 17. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein the media comprises a live stream showing at least one product or service and a separate display area for exhibiting the at least one product or service.
 18. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein the stylist portal is given accesses to guest information.
 19. The non-transitory computer readable medium storing computer-executable instructions of claim 18, wherein the method comprises providing a chat area having a search feature linking a product or service within the chat area to a query.
 20. The non-transitory computer readable medium storing computer-executable instructions of claim 18, wherein said first portal is a stylist portal, said second portal is a hostess portal and said at least one other portal is a guest portal.
 21. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 10, wherein said first portal is a stylist portal, said second portal is a hostess portal and said at least one other portal is a guest portal.
 22. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a computer, cause the computer to perform a method comprising: receive timing information for a virtual show; associate user information with the virtual show; generate a website from the information; launch a first portal, second portal and at least one other portal for the website; receive from the first portal a selection of products or services to be displayed on the at least one other portal for purchase during the virtual show; and monitor the virtual show through the second portal.
 23. A system for direct selling through a remote platform, comprising: a memory for storing computer readable code; and a processor operatively coupled to the memory, the processor configured to: receive time and date information for creating multiple discrete direct selling events; match a representative with each of said multiple discrete direct selling events; generate an invitation to at least one guest for each of said multiple direct selling events; generate a specific website from the time and date information for each of the direct selling events; launch a first portal, second portal and at least one other portal to each specific website for each of the direct selling events.
 24. A system for direct selling through a remote platform according to claim 23, wherein said first portal is a stylist portal, said second portal is a hostess portal and said at least one other portal is a guest portal. 